KABATAAN Partylist Pangasinan is opposing the continued large-scale expansion of solar power plants in the province, citing concerns over environmental degradation, loss of agricultural livelihoods, and alleged violations of Indigenous peoples’ rights.

Angelo Tejoso, coordinator of Kabataan Partylist Pangasinan, stated that while solar energy is widely regarded as a renewable and cleaner power source, his group believes that the current manner in which solar projects are being implemented in the province raises serious social and environmental concerns.

He pointed to the growing number of solar facilities in towns such as Sual and Labrador, noting that the size and density of the installations have become increasingly visible, with glare from solar panels reportedly reaching nearby areas, including the town of Bugallon.

Tejoso said this indicates what the group describes as an uncontrolled expansion that lacks sufficient environmental and community impact assessment.

Partylist argued that instead of large, corporate-owned solar power plants, the government should promote decentralized solar energy systems. Under this model, individual households and communities would install their own solar panels, enabling residents to benefit from lower electricity costs while minimizing land-use conflicts directly.

The group also expressed concern over the continued conversion of agricultural land for energy projects and the impact on Indigenous communities, particularly in areas covered by ancestral domain claims.

Kabataan Partylist Pangasinan clarified that it does not oppose renewable energy development in principle, but is against projects that, in its view, compromise the environment, local livelihoods, and community rights for the benefit of private interests. (Ahikam Pasion)