Several of the country's critical ports will undergo modernization upgrades and be repurposed to boost offshore wind (OSW) energy projects and increase our renewable energy capacity under an innovative partnership between the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
The partnership has initially identified three critical ports that aim to
position the country as a leader in offshore wind development in the region.
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."
The PPA has formally expressed its full support to the DOE in initiating the detailed engineering designs and taking immediate steps to repurpose the ports of Currimao in Ilocos Norte, Batangas in Sta. Clara, Batangas City and Jose Panganiban in Camarines Norte.
The three priority ports will be fully equipped to handle OSW projects' installation, commissioning, and operational requirements.
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. 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 pre-development stages, including permitting, licensing, and data gathering. On the other hand, the Port of Jose Panganiban 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."
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 significantly contribute 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 Lotilla's statement, reaffirming the PPA's commitment to 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.
Lotilla thanked 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.
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