RP Energy submits memo on Writ of Kalikasan vs Subic coal plant project

Redondo Peninsula Energy Inc. (RP Energy) has submitted a memorandum to the Court of Appeals on the Writ of Kalikasan issued against its planned 600-megawatt coal project in Subic. "RP Energy is committed to completing the process towards a final and speedy resolution in order for the project to be online and meet the much needed capacity by 2016," RP Energy said in a statement. Citing confidentiality reasons, the company declined to provide a copy of the memorandum. RP Energy is a consortium of energy firms Meralco PowerGen, a subsidiary of Manila Electric Co.; Therma Power, a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corp.; and Taiwan Cogeneration International Corp. The Supreme Court issued a Writ of Kalikasan against RP Energy, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and Environment Secretary Ramon Paje in July 2012 based on a petition filed by Rep. Teodoro Casino and others. However, the Supreme Court also held in abeyance the issuance of a Temporary Environmental Protection Order against RP Energy, allowing it to proceed with the project. In December, RP Energy was granted an amended environmental compliance certificate for the coal project. The coal project was originally granted an ECC for 300 MW, but the expansion of the project to 600 MW necessitated an amendment to include the additional 300 MW. RP Energy is also finalizing an amended and restated Lease and Development Agreement with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. — BM, GMA News