Headlines For Aug. 12, 2024

Pilipino Fishermen Voice Concerns Over Solar Panels Project

Philippines fishermen worry solar farm on lake will hurt incomes (voanews.com)

As the Philippine government plans to install floating solar panels on Laguna de Bay, concerns have emerged among local fishermen who rely on the lake for their livelihood.

The lake is a significant source of freshwater fish in the country and is vital to countless fishermen. Many of these fishermen are worried that the solar project will diminish fishing grounds and disturb the local ecosystem. The project aims to fulfill the country’s increasing energy demands through renewable sources. Still, it poses potential environmental and social challenges, such as the effect on fish populations and possible damage from natural disasters. Although specific studies indicate that the solar panels could serve as spawning grounds for fish, the fishing community remains skeptical, as they feel they have more to lose.

Photo credit: Studio Phillipines via Canva