Philippines targets offshore wind expansion as auction risks further delay
The government is auctioning 3,300 megawatts of capacity, but Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said winning bidders may not be named until early 2027.
The Philippines is seeking to bring 3,300 megawatts of fixed-bottom offshore wind capacity into service between 2028 and 2030, although Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the auction awards could slip to early 2027.
Infrastructure requirements have already pushed the auction past its initial 2025 schedule. Speaking in Singapore during the Singapore International Energy Week, Garin said expansion would take time because the industry needs suitable infrastructure and supporting capabilities.
Garin said electricity networks, ports and communities must be prepared for offshore wind development. The Philippine Ports Authority is expected to begin construction of Pambujan Port in Camarines Norte in November 2026.
Santa Clara Port in Batangas is also planned. The two facilities are intended to support offshore wind projects during installation, commissioning and subsequent operations.
The World Bank Group estimates the Philippines has technical offshore wind potential exceeding 178 GW. The planned auction capacity would contribute to efforts to raise renewables’ share of the national power mix.
Garin said offshore wind could eventually allow the Philippines to export surplus electricity to neighbouring countries through interconnected grids. She also said the country could attract businesses to establish local operations and manufacture offshore wind components.
