PH commences auction for fixed-bottom offshore wind capacity

The projects have a delivery period from 2028 to 2030.

The Philippines’ Department of Energy (DOE) has launched the Fifth Green Energy Auction (GEA-5), seeking bids to expand the country’s offshore wind generation.

According to the department, this is the first round to focus on fixed-bottom offshore wind technology, offering an installation target of 3,300 megawatts (MW) with a delivery commencement period from 2028 to 2030.

“By prioritising fixed-bottom offshore wind for GEA-5, we are investing in a technology that is ready to deliver,” said Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla. “This allows us to set a strong and credible foundation for the country’s offshore wind sector, one that can deliver first power by 2028.”

The department said fixed-bottom offshore wind has been selected as the focus of GEA-5 due to its established global track record, cost-efficiency, and scalability.

There is potential for floating offshore wind technology, but it remains in the early stages of development, DOE noted. Globally, only 240 MW of floating wind capacity has been deployed to date, with Hywind Tampen’s 88 MW facility currently being the largest project.

DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara said the Philippines remains open for floating offshore wind technology “as global experience grows and the technology mature.”

“For now, our focus is to build momentum with fixed-bottom projects that can succeed under current technical, regulatory, and infrastructure conditions,” she added.