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Philippines Set to Launch Offshore Wind Auction by Year-End

The Philippine government plans to start a bidding process for offshore wind projects by year-end, with submissions due eight months later.
Philippines Plans to Kick Off Offshore Wind Auction by Year-End

The Philippine government plans to start the bidding process for offshore wind projects by the end of this year, with submissions due eight months after the tender’s initiation, reports the Manila Bulletin, citing Energy Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara.

In April 2022, the World Bank and the Philippines’ Department of Energy (DOE) launched The Philippines Offshore Wind Roadmap, which indicated the country could install up to 21 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2040 with appropriate governmental and policy support.

A year later, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order No. 21, directing the DOE to create a policy and administrative framework for offshore wind development and to begin grid development activities.

In a press release issued on 23 April 2023, the DOE announced it had awarded 63 offshore wind contracts, totaling a potential capacity of 49.928 GW, enough to meet future electricity demand.

Several major companies, including Copenhagen Energy, BlueFloat Energy, Corio Generation, and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, have shown interest in the Philippine offshore wind sector.

Copenhagen Energy and PGEC began co-developing projects off the coast of the Philippines in 2020 and formalized their partnership as BuhaWind Energy Philippines (BEP) in 2022. They are developing three floating offshore wind farms: the 2 GW Northern Luzon, the 1 GW Northern Mindoro, and the 1 GW East Panay.

The Northern Luzon project, which could power 2,000,000 homes annually, was recently selected by the DOE as a leading initiative in the Philippine offshore wind market, Copenhagen Energy noted in a recent social media post.

Corio Generation aims to develop up to five offshore wind projects totaling 3 GW off the coasts of Cavite, Batangas-Mindoro, Iloilo, and Guimaras under wind energy service contracts (WESCs) providing site exclusivity. Recently, the Philippine Board of Investments granted the company green lane certification, expected to simplify permitting processes for its upcoming projects.

In June 2023, BlueFloat Energy announced it had secured WESCs for four floating offshore wind project sites in the country. According to Philippine media, BlueFloat’s projects have a total capacity of 7.5 GW, with individual farm capacities ranging between 1.5 and 3.5 GW.

In March 2023, CIP signed 25-year Offshore Wind Service Contracts with the DOE for three offshore wind farms totaling 2 GW in capacity. These projects are proposed to be developed offshore Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur, offshore Northern Samar, and offshore Pangasinan and La Union.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

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COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024