The Department of Energy (DOE) is ramping up support for floating solar projects under the Green Energy Auction Program, redistributing over 1,000 megawatts of capacity in Luzon and introducing 175MW of new auction slots for the Visayas region.

In its second advisory for the fourth Green Energy Auction round (GEA-4), the DOE in a press statement said the 1,040MW installation target originally set for Luzon in 2026 will now be spread until 2029 to give developers more lead time and improve integration into the grid, particularly for floating solar—a newer technology that installs solar panels on lakes, reservoirs, or dams.

In addition to the Luzon revisions, the DOE added 175MW of capacity in the Visayas, scheduled for auction in 2027 and 2028.

By adjusting capacity schedules and introducing region-specific targets, the DOE is laying the groundwork for broader adoption of floating solar in the Philippines, which is an emerging clean energy solution that offers land-saving benefits and enhanced panel performance through natural water-based cooling.

The new timeline gives developers more time to conduct feasibility studies, secure permits, and finalize financing, while giving the grid operator time to prepare for integration.

The DOE’s earlier Advisory No. 1, issued on May 28, 2025, introduced critical updates to streamline GEA-4:

• Solar capacities are now standardized in MWAc (maximum stable output), replacing the MWp unit for clarity.
• Developers can bid for stand-alone solar or integrated solar plus Energy Storage Systems (ESS), provided they submit separate bid bonds and hold valid contracts.
• Administrative enhancements include issuing bidder IDs after project lot confirmation and waiving ESS capacity requirements at registration.
• Post-auction, winning bidders must submit detailed designs, with solar + ESS projects requiring new impact studies.
• Bid bonds are calculated solely on solar MWAc, ensuring financial transparency.

The fourth round of the Green Energy Auction will cover solar, wind, and other renewable technologies, with final bid submissions and awards expected later this year.

“These comprehensive updates underscore the DOE’s mission to deliver a transparent, competitive, and future-forward renewable energy auction system. As the Philippines targets 35% renewable energy share by 2030, the rollout of technologies like Floating Solar will play a transformative role in achieving a cleaner, more resilient energy future for all Filipinos,” the DOE said.

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