The Department of Energy (DOE) has opened the country’s first offshore wind-only auction under the Fifth Green Energy Auction (GEA-5), introducing a milestone-based framework that aligns project development with government preparations on ports, transmission, and permitting. The new approach marks the most coordinated push yet to bring large-scale offshore wind (OSW) into the national energy mix.

GEA-5 offers 3,300 megawatts for delivery between 2028 and 2030. Alongside the release of the Notice of Auction and final Terms of Reference (TOR), the DOE said the round is designed to ensure that project timelines move in step with grid studies, port readiness, and regulatory processing.

The TOR reflects extensive consultations across agencies and the industry. “This auction pushes offshore wind from potential to reality. With clear rules, milestones, and dedicated infrastructure planning, developers can now move from early studies to bankable projects,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.

The terms limit participation to fixed-bottom offshore wind consistent with current infrastructure conditions and sets a 20-year Supply Delivery Period, with Green Energy Tariff (GET) payments starting at commissioning and WESM registration. Updated bid bonds, performance bonds, and rules for early or delayed commissioning are also included.

The DOE said GEA-5 is the first auction to formally align port and grid preparations with developer milestones. Coordination with NGCP, TransCo, the Philippine Ports Authority, and other agencies is intended to accelerate facility studies, REPA execution, grid connection agreements, and port scheduling.

Pambujan Port in Camarines Norte and Sta. Clara Port in Batangas have been identified as installation ports, with guidance provided for developers who may opt for private facilities. The TOR also outlines clear port access rules, queuing procedures, and penalties for delays, along with lender step-in rights to support financing continuity.

With the TOR and Notice of Auction issued, developers are expected to prepare wind resource assessments, infrastructure plans, and corporate documents ahead of the pre-bid conference and registration period to be announced on the DOE website.

“Offshore wind can anchor our long-term clean energy transition. GEA-5 signals the Philippines is ready to compete for global investment,” Garin said.

How do you see this milestone-aligned auction shaping the country’s offshore wind pipeline and infrastructure readiness?

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.