The Philippines’ Department of Energy (DOE) has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating renewable energy development and strengthening energy security in 2026, with offshore wind emerging as a central pillar of the government’s clean energy strategy. The agenda is aimed at expanding renewable capacity while reducing dependence on coal and diesel, particularly in island grids where clean energy penetration remains limited.

Energy officials said the focus will be on scaling up indigenous energy resources to reduce exposure to volatile global fuel markets. Renewables currently account for only about 7 percent of the energy mix in some island systems, prompting the DOE to prioritise cleaner alternatives. Natural gas is also being positioned as a transitional baseload option to support grid stability as renewable generation increases.

The DOE continues to advance gas exploration contracts alongside the extension of the Malampaya gas field, while also pushing development of hydrogen and other renewable resources to ensure long-term supply security. Despite the complexity and risks associated with large-scale projects, the agency said it remains confident of meeting its offshore wind installation target of 3,300 MW under the Green Energy Auction programme, which allocates renewable capacity through competitive bidding.

The strategy reflects the government’s broader objective of balancing cleaner energy deployment with system reliability, as the country works to meet rising electricity demand while transitioning toward a more secure and sustainable energy mix.