Project Case Study – Partner Screening in the Philippines (Solar + BESS)
Project Context
A mid-sized international EPC contractor, specialized in hybrid solar plus battery energy storage systems (BESS), aimed to identify credible development partners in the Philippines. The company was evaluating entry opportunities for C&I-scale projects (2 to 20 MW) but lacked in-depth knowledge of the local ecosystem and needed a curated shortlist of trustworthy local actors.
Client Objectives
1. Screen and prequalify potential partners with experience in commercial and industrial (C&I) solar + BESS
2. Focus on technically reliable, financially solvent, and reputationally sound developers
3. Reduce the risk and time-to-engagement for pilot projects and long-term joint ventures
Challenge
1. Highly fragmented local market with many small EPCs and traders
2. Difficulty assessing track record and credibility from afar
3. Need to move fast, without being misled by superficial marketing or unverifiable claims
4. The client’s brand was unknown in the region
Partner Screening & Strategic Introduction Mission (1 month):
1. Definition of screening criteria (capacity built, C&I portfolio, financials, certifications, management reputation)
2. Outreach to 35+ local players and filtering based on objective and qualitative metrics
3. Delivery of a ranked shortlist with profiles, track record, and key contact persons
4. Facilitation of first contact, including technical discussions and commercial terms alignment
1. 6 credible developers shortlisted with full profile and references
2. 3 direct meetings arranged with shortlisted partners
3. 1 partner currently under NDA for a 10 MW C&I hybrid site
4. Time saved: over 80 hours of internal research and vetting
1. In emerging markets, trusted introductions remain a core currency
2. Not all players advertising BESS capabilities are actually experienced in energy storage
3. Cultural alignment and seriousness of commitment often matter more than initial capacity figures
|
Item |
Detail |
|---|---|
|
Sector |
Solar PV + Battery Energy Storage (BESS) |
|
Client Type |
International EPC Contractor |
|
Geography |
Philippines (Luzon + Visayas regions) |
|
Duration |
1-month focused mission |
|
Services Activated |
Partner Scouting, Shortlisting, Facilitation |
|
Outcome |
1 partner under discussion for JV deployment |