SNAP, ICH host international training for hydropower stakeholders
The power industry faces a number of challenges, including
maintaining the balance between achieving business objectives and the social
and environmental impacts of its operations. However, the achievement of the
Global Goals on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern
energy for all—as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals—depends on the
development and maintenance of mutually beneficial partnerships between
stakeholders.
In
the search for solutions to these challenges, renewable energy provider SN
Aboitiz Power (SNAP) has partnered with the International Centre for Hydropower
(ICH) to bring together local and international experts and stakeholders for a
course on the Prevention and Administration of Social and Environmental
Conflicts in the Renewable Energy Sector.
The
course, also supported by Australian Aid, International Finance Corporation,
Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, and the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, brought together 22
representatives from 16 foreign and local organizations. The capacity-building
activity was held at the Makati Diamond Residences during the World Water Week
from March 18 to 22, 2019.
“One of the most
important lessons that SNAP has learned in our short existence is that
inclusive and people-centered approaches to development and operations are
critical in terms how we establish and sustain a mutually-beneficial
relationship with our host communities, our industry, and our community
partners,” shared SNAP President and CEO Joseph S. Yu during his welcome
address to the delegates.
“Bringing this course
to Asia has turned out to be a big success. Social and environmental conflicts
can threaten the necessary development of our resources. A systematic and
knowledge-based handling of these conflicts is crucial,” remarked ICH Managing
Director Line Amlund Hagen. “ICH is truly
grateful for the support of SNAP in making this course a success. We are
confident that our participants will use their new competence for sustainable
hydropower development.”
ICH
is a Norway-based non-profit organization that seeks to raise the standards of
competence of personnel in the hydropower industry, and to promote the
sustainable development of hydropower resources.
SNAP,
developer and operator of 100% renewable energy facilities, is a joint venture
of SN Power of Norway and AboitizPower. It owns and operates the 380-MW Magat
hydro on the border of Isabela and Ifugao; the 8.5 -MW Maris hydro in Isabela;
the 105-MW Ambuklao hydro in Benguet; and the 140-MW Binga hydro also in
Benguet.
0 comments