The Department of Energy (DOE) announced that the third round of the Green Energy Auction (GEA-5), focused on offshore wind (OSW) projects, will begin in the third quarter of next year.
In a statement on Thursday, Dec. 12, the DOE said GEA-5 will provide developers with secure and accessible market access, ensuring long-term demand for their generation capacities.
The auction will also serve as a timeline guide for stakeholders, including the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and local government units (LGUs).
According to the DOE, GEA-5 will advance the country's energy transition goals by diversifying the Philippine energy mix and minimizing reliance on fossil fuels.
“As a cornerstone of the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050, GEA-5 exemplifies the government’s unwavering commitment to renewable energy deployment, energy security, and the nation’s energy transition agenda,,” the DOE said.
The GEA-5 launch is anticipated to attract more OSW development and generate significant economic benefits, such as job creation and industrial growth within the renewable energy (RE) sector. It will also strengthen the nation’s commitment to a sustainable and inclusive energy future.
The DOE has awarded 92 OSW service contracts with a total capacity of 68,656 megawatts (MW).
The Notice of Auction (NOA) and the Terms of Reference (TOR) for GEA-5, including the timeline, procedures, and guidelines for participation, will be released soon.
“Currently, the Department is evaluating position papers from stakeholders to integrate valuable insights, ensuring a transparent and effective auction process,” the DOE added.