Your article 'CLP's use of dirty coal pushes up pollution' (April 15) confirms our contention that the prime rationale behind CLP Power's decision to use coal was primarily economic rather than supply and had no regard to health.
We had been told by CLP Power that the conversion to coal was caused by lower-than-expected gas reserves at Hainan. It informed us that coal with the lowest sulfur content was being used, but now it says the data on the sulfur-content of the coal is not available. We were also told that the Hainan reserves are sufficient for five to seven years, which allows adequate time for CLP to establish liquefied natural gas facilities.
So there is enough gas from a secure source, yet a decision was made to use a cheaper fuel with complete disregard for public health. Low-sulfur coal is available at a higher price, but that eats into profits. So much for corporate social responsibility. CLP should be embarrassed by these revelations. It seems to be incapable of anticipating trends in the energy market.
The public should also be aware of the substantial increase in carbon dioxide emissions resulting from CLP's actions. Allowing sulfur dioxide emissions to increase by almost 90 per cent is simply unacceptable. The proposal to now install flue gas desulfurisation equipment is an example of both poor planning and a lack of commitment to the environment.
The proposed revisions to the Scheme of Control are an opportunity to rectify this faulty decision-making process. Emissions standards must be tightened with the government displaying the will to enforce them with penalties if need be. CLP should be told to investigate the International Energy Agency and OECD for ways to substantially reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
At the same time, companies should be required to invest in renewable energy generation in accordance with financial guidelines and performance benchmarks. Token investments and commitments can no longer be tolerated. A guaranteed 15 per cent return on fixed assets creates a much greater obligation than reliable energy generation.
We are paying an unacceptable price in terms of our longevity and health costs. The truly sad element of this shortsightedness is that they breathe the same air as we do and they do not seem to care.