NZ and Philippines explore cooperation on geothermal via private firms
MB Century drilling rig on site in Taupo, NZ (source: MB Century)
Alexander Richter
2 Apr 2013
In meetings with executives of MB Century Drilling & Energy Services in New Zealand, Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand discussed areas of cooperation between the Philippines and New Zealand on renewable energy projects.
Reported from the Philippines, the country’s “Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez and Vice Consul Glenn Joseph Q. Obach met with the executives of MB Century Drilling & Energy Services (NZ) Limited, Marcel Manders and John Barrat, in New Zealand in late February 2013 to discuss possible areas of cooperation between the two countries, particularly in renewable sources of energy.
“Geothermal energy development and cooperation in renewable sources of energy are complementary and priority areas of cooperation between the Philippines and New Zealand, both at the government and private sector levels,” the statement read.
During their meeting, Mr. Manders highlighted how MB Century is involved in oil drilling in Palawan, among others. He also said MB Century specializes in “reservoir data logging, steamfield design and engineering, hydro and geothermal generating plant maintenance, machine shop services-precision engineering, fabrication services, and industrial coatings.”
Messrs. Manders and Barrat also praised the work ethic of MB Century’s Filipino welding team.”
Source: Business World Online
