Buhawind Energy Northern Luzon Corp. (BENLC) has partnered with Mingyang Smart Energy Group Ltd. to conduct a joint feasibility study for the planned 2-gigawatt (GW) offshore wind project in Ilocos Norte, marking a new milestone in the Philippines’ floating offshore wind industry.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two firms was signed on November 6, 2025, paving the way for a detailed assessment of the project’s technical and commercial viability. The cooperation will focus on evaluating the suitability of Mingyang’s offshore wind turbines and technologies for the wind conditions in Northern Luzon, as well as preparing a new energy yield assessment and cost estimates for the development.

BENLC President F. G. Delfin Jr. said the collaboration aims to further de-risk the project and support long-term planning for large-scale offshore wind development. “This cooperation with Mingyang will contribute significantly in de-risking the project further and identifying pathways for viable commercial development,” Delfin stated.

He added that both companies acknowledge the scale and complexity of the project. “Both parties accept the long-term nature of offshore wind development and we clearly recognize the enormous technical, commercial, and infrastructure challenges that need to be overcome,” he added.

Mingyang Smart Energy, China’s third-largest wind turbine manufacturer with more than 61,000 megawatts installed globally, is recognized for its advancements in floating offshore wind technology. The company developed the world’s first anti-typhoon floating wind turbine and the Ocean X integrated floating wind system.

Liu Wenhao, Mingyang Vice President for Global Business, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing clean energy in the Philippines. “We extend our appreciation and respect to BENLC, PGEC, and YGC for their pioneering but deliberate approach to the Philippines’ floating offshore wind market,” Liu said. “Together with BENLC, we will conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for the floating system and local infrastructure conditions.”

BENLC is a subsidiary of PetroGreen Energy Corp. (PGEC), a member of the Yuchengco Group of Companies (YGC), with Japan’s Kyuden International Corp. (KIC) as its minority partner.

The partnership reinforces ongoing government efforts to expand offshore wind capacity as part of the Department of Energy’s renewable energy roadmap.