Marine energy closed 2025 with significant developments in Asia contrasting sharply with challenges faced in the United States. Offshore wind projects progressed through auctions and orders while tidal energy forecasts illustrated long-term growth potential - events that signal changing global priorities for renewable marine power.
Philippines Green Energy Auction Targets 3.3GW Offshore Wind
On November 25th 2025, the Philippines Department of Energy unveiled Green Energy Auction 5 (GEA-5), its inaugural competitive auction dedicated to fixed-bottom offshore wind projects. With 3.3 GW scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2030 and successful bidders receiving 20-year supply contracts; additional provisions such as grid connection rules, port usage policies, queueing rules, bid bonds and performance bonds have also been strengthened as part of this initiative.
Pambujan Port in Camarines Norte and Sta. Clara Port in Batangas have been selected as installation ports for GEA-5 projects, providing essential infrastructure support for deployment of offshore wind infrastructure, thus strengthening maritime logistics for renewable energy development in the Philippines. This auction also supports wider efforts across APAC to increase renewable power sources as energy demand continues to increase.
Vestas Secures 390MW Offshore Wind Order from South Korea
Vestas Asia Pacific announced on December 29, 2025, a 390MW order for South Koreas Shinan-Ui Offshore Wind Project, underscoring their commitment to marine renewables despite any permitting delays due to onshore guidelines. South Koreas position as a leader with 511 MW installed tidal capacity already makes this an excellent project.
South Koreas New and Renewable Energy Centre released the H2 2025 onshore wind auction guidelines last November, postponing offshore tenders until Q1 2026 due to permitting and coordination issues. Shinan-Uis order illustrates turbine manufacturers' role in filling any gaps that exist through proven technology deployment.
US Offshore Wind Industry Amid Stop-Work Orders and Reviews
In December 2025, the US Department of Interior issued stop-work orders against five offshore wind projects under construction - Empire Wind being one - due to changes in policy brought about by President-elect Trump's administration and their impact on development timelines.
Vineyard Wind, a 62-turbine project located south of Nantucket, received approval to continue producing electricity despite the wider federal order. Unfortunately, 2025 proved turbulent for this sector with Bureau of Ocean Energy Management seeking court remand of its 2024 approval for New England Wind and reviewing impacts to right whales, fishing grounds, navigation routes and historic sites.
Tidal Energy Market Projections Signal the Acceleration of Marine Renewables
Allied Market Research forecasts the global tidal energy market will experience rapid expansion from 2023-2033 at an average compound annual compound growth rate of 21.9%. Europe leads with strong policies, while Asia-Pacific surges fastest driven by South Korea, China India and Japan's investments in pilots and infrastructure.
Tidal energy's predictability makes it a powerful baseload solution to intermittent renewables like wind and solar, with developments in turbine technology, desalination integration, patent activity in China and patent activity from key players like Orbital Marine Power, SIMEC Atlantis Energy and Minesto all seeking partnerships and deployment opportunities.
Marine Energy Initiatives Benefit From Broader APAC Policy Changes
Taiwan revised their Ministry of Economic Affairs in December 2025, shifting offshore wind approvals under the One-Stop Shop Act from its former home at the Ministry of Economic Affairs to its newly formed Ministry of Climate and Energy Transition. A revised Offshore Wind Infrastructure Expansion Plan followed shortly afterwards for improved governance.
These regional initiatives stand in stark contrast to US setbacks, positioning Asia as a marine energy powerhouse. Malaysias Budget 2026 expanded Feed-in Tariffs primarily focused on biogas and hydro projects; Indias maritime laws support port development essential for offshore projects.