An American-backed renewable energy technology firm is eyeing Iloilo as its manufacturing base in the Philippines for compact vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs), a move that could position the province as an emerging hub for clean energy manufacturing.

WindIQ executives conveyed their interest during a courtesy visit to Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, where they presented the company’s compact wind turbine technology designed to generate renewable energy while allowing agricultural activities to continue beneath and around the installations.

American partner Zenock Bishop said Iloilo stands out as the company’s preferred location for future expansion. “Iloilo is a place where we can grow and develop. The area is great. In our minds, it’s the perfect place for what we want to do,” Bishop said.

The delegation also included Atty. Martin Yasay, Engr. Jay Soriano, Vladimir Mata and American partner Chase Kelly.

Governor Defensor welcomed the proposal, saying the technology aligns with the province’s push for sustainable development and renewable energy investments. He noted that the vertical-axis design offers a practical solution for maximizing land use by allowing power generation and agricultural production to coexist.

Unlike conventional horizontal-axis wind turbines, which require large open spaces and depend on wind from a single direction, vertical-axis turbines have a smaller footprint and can harness wind from multiple directions, making them suitable for both agricultural and commercial applications.

If realized, the project is expected to attract new investments, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen Iloilo’s position as a growing center for renewable energy innovation and advanced manufacturing.

Defensor, however, emphasized that the proposal remains in its preliminary stage. He encouraged WindIQ to submit a comprehensive business proposal that the provincial government can evaluate and eventually present to local government units and the local business sector for further assessment before any formal commitments are made.