The Department of Energy (DoE) aims to restart its coal auction, including the significant Semirara island block, by mid-2026 after an initial postponement. The auction, launched in February, offers three coal areas with an estimated 207 million metric tons of reserves, with the Semirara block alone holding approximately 160 million metric tons. This block is currently operated by Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC), the nation's largest coal producer, whose contract is expiring. Concerns from potential bidders regarding contract duration, production volume, and asset handling are being addressed, with the DoE considering a requirement for a minimum percentage of coal to be sold domestically. The auction is seen as a pragmatic move for energy security during the country's transition toward renewables.