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The Department of Energy and Philippine Ports Authority will work together to repurpose three ports to handle requirements of offshore wind projects
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Currimao port in Ilocos Norte, Batangas port in Sta. Clara, Batangas City, and Jose Panganiban port in Camarines Norte were identified by DOE as critical to OSW development, given their proximity to high-potential offshore wind energy service contracts
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PPA will be responsible for the feasibility study and infrastructure development of the identified ports
The Department of Energy (DOE) and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) will work together to repurpose three priority ports to handle the requirements of offshore wind (OSW) projects.
In a statement, DOE said PPA will initiate the detailed engineering designs and take immediate steps to repurpose three ports to ensure they are fully equipped to handle the installation, commissioning, and operational requirements of OSW projects.
Currimao port in Ilocos Norte, Batangas port in Sta. Clara, Batangas City, and Jose Panganiban port in Camarines Norte were identified by DOE as critical to OSW development, given their proximity to high-potential offshore wind energy service contracts (OWESCs).
“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,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.
DOE said this collaborative effort aims to boost the Philippines’ renewable energy capacity, positioning the country as a leader in offshore wind development in the region.
PPA general manager Jay Santiago, for his part, 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,” Santiago said in a letter to DOE.
Santiago last July said the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is doing a feasibility study on 10 ports that have been identified by DOE that can be repurposed as part of the country’s infrastructure readiness for offshore wind farms.
Positioned near 13 OWESCs, Currimao port supports a potential total capacity of 9,489 megawatts (MW), with three service contracts already in the advanced pre-development stage while the Batangas port 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.
Jose Panganiban port, 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.
Lotilla added that these ports will serve as vital logistical hubs throughout the lifecycle of offshore wind projects—from installation to commissioning and decommissioning.
He added that 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.
Santiago echoed the statement of 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,” he said.
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.
READ: PPA working with DOE to redevelop ports for offshore wind projects
