The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) will be working hand in hand to accelerate the development of the country’s offshore wind (OSW) energy projects through the strategic repurposing and modernization of port infrastructure. This collaborative effort aims to boost the Philippines’ renewable energy capacity, positioning the country as a leader in offshore wind development in the region.
The PPA has formally expressed its full support to the DOE to initiate the detailed engineering designs and take immediate steps to repurpose three priority ports to ensure that they are fully equipped to handle the installation, commissioning, and operational requirements of OSW projects. These are the Port of Currimao in Ilocos Norte, Port of Batangas in Sta. Clara, Batangas City, and Port of Jose Panganiban in Camarines Norte.
Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating it is vital in advancing the offshore wind energy sector. “The modernization of port facilities will not only accelerate OSW projects but also play a critical role in securing the country’s clean energy future and promoting economic growth, Secretary Lotilla said.
The DOE has identified these three ports as critical to OSW development, given their proximity to high-potential offshore wind energy service contracts (OWESCs).
Positioned near 13 OWESCs, the Port of Currimao supports a potential total capacity of 9,489 MW, with three service contracts already in the advanced pre-development stage while the Port of Batangas is located close to 29 OWESCs with a combined potential capacity of 24,300 MW. Six of these projects are in the advanced stages of pre-development, including permitting, licensing, and data gathering. The Port of Jose Panganiban, on the other hand, is situated near 14 OWESCs with a potential capacity of 8,150 MW, with two projects in the advanced pre-development phase.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago emphasized the crucial role of ports in enabling offshore wind projects. "In recognition of the critical role that port infrastructure plays in the successful delivery of OSW energy projects, we are pleased to inform you that the PPA will be responsible for the feasibility study and infrastructure development of these identified ports, PPA GM Jay Santiago emphasized in a letter to the DOE.”
Secretary Lotilla added that these ports will serve as vital logistical hubs throughout the lifecycle of offshore wind projects --- from installation to commissioning and decommissioning. Upgrading these facilities ensures that the Philippines is ready to accommodate the increasing demands of OSW projects, which are expected to deliver significant contributions to the country’s energy security and economic stability.
"By modernizing these strategic ports, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of OSW development but also laying the foundation for long-term job creation and sustained growth in the renewable energy sector," Lotilla said.
General Manager Santiago echoed the statement of Secretary Lotilla, reaffirming the PPA’s commitment to the DOE’s renewable energy goals. "The PPA fully supports the DOE's efforts in realizing offshore wind energy projects. We are committed to working closely with the DOE to ensure the completion of port infrastructure upgrades and to help usher in a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for the country."
With this strong partnership, the DOE and PPA are confident that the Philippines will continue to advance its renewable energy objectives, creating opportunities for local industries and positioning the country as a key player in offshore wind development in Southeast Asia.
Secretary Lotilla expressed his thanks to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Economic Managers for recognizing the critical role of port infrastructure in advancing offshore wind energy. Their forward-thinking approach and support for upgrading port facilities highlight the government’s strong commitment to sustainable energy.###