DOE releases circular on offshore wind permitting

By Alena Mae S. Flores – June 22, 2023, 8:10 pm
from manilastandard.net

The Department of Energy said Thursday it issued a new circular that will eliminate unnecessary delays in every stage of the offshore wind project development, specifically streamlining the permitting process of different agencies.

DOE Department Circular No. DC2023-06-0020 signed by Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla on June 16 provides the policy and administrative framework for the efficient and optimal development of offshore wind resources to all permitting agencies.

The circular aims to remove any duplications and overlapping permitting within and among the attached agencies of the permitting agencies, remove duplications and redundant documentary requirements, reduce signatories and review and rationalize fees for OSW.

It said the new policy and administrative framework defines the agency’s earlier implementing guidelines with respect to the issuance of permits and licenses for OSW projects by permitting agencies.

The framework mandates all permitting agencies to submit a complete list of appropriate permits and clearances, including all requirements, fees and a detailed process flow diagram.

This was issued after a series of public consultations and stakeholders’ engagements pursuant to Section 2 of Executive Order No. 21 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on April 19, 2023.