The Philippines can ensure the long-term success of its offshore wind projects by adopting formal community engagement strategies and flexible business requirements found in established international markets, according to the authors of the newly released report. These global examples show that creating legally binding agreements between developers and local residents is essential for gaining public support and maximizing economic growth.
“Lessons from Japan and the United Kingdom suggest that CBAs can serve as more than just goodwill actions. When embedded in policy and backed by developer contributions, they become instruments of social consent—facilitating trust, mitigating opposition, and unlocking broader economic benefits.”
Essentially, the report suggests that instead of hoping developers will be generous, the government should set clear rules that turn local benefits into a formal requirement. By making sure coastal communities have a say in planning and a guaranteed slice of the profits, the country can avoid local conflicts and ensure that the new industry truly helps people who live near the wind farms.
Released in March 2026 by the Global Wind Energy Council, the report “Offshore Wind for Coastal Development: Socio-Economic Impact Study” explores the economic potential of wind energy in the Philippines. It was prepared by a joint team of experts from GWEC and the consultancy NIRAS, led by Ann Margret Francisco and Juan Miguel Consolacion.
