The Department of Energy (DOE) launched on Wednesday the fifth round of its Green Energy Auction (GEA 5), targeting the deployment of 3,300 megawatts (MW) of fixed-bottom offshore wind (OSW) capacity between 2028 and 2030.
In a statement, the DOE said the GEA 5 will prioritize fixed-bottom OSW technology due to its proven global track record, cost-efficiency, and scalability. The decision is a strategic push to accelerate renewable energy development in line with national energy security and climate goals.
“By prioritizing 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.”
Energy undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara added that while the DOE recognizes the future potential of floating OSW, it remains in the early stages of global development. “We are still keeping the door open for floating offshore wind… but for now, our focus is to build momentum with fixed-bottom projects,” she said.
Under GEA’s competitive structure, developers will bid for long-term power contracts by offering prices at or below benchmark rates set by the Energy Regulatory Commission.
The GEA 5 initiative supports the DOE’s broader offshore wind roadmap, developed with the World Bank Group, which envisions up to 21,000 MW of installed capacity by 2040. The Philippines’ total OSW technical potential is estimated at 178,000 MW.
To date, 82 OSW projects have been awarded across the country, with a combined potential capacity exceeding 63,000 MW.
