Meralco pilots ‘smart metering’ system

About 5,000 of these smart meters will be rolled out soon under the pilot implementation of its advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) program.

MANILA  -Power distributor Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) plans to roll out 5,000 “smart” meters under the pilot implementation of its advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) program as the company works to modernize its network and improve operational efficiency.

Ronnie Aperocho, Meralco chief operating officer, said on Wednesday that the pilot implementation could help customers “realize the value of having a smart meter.”

AMI, an integrated system of smart meters, communication networks and data management systems, enables two-way communication between utilities and customers. Consumers can better monitor and manage power usage. Smart meters can also detect outages.

According to Aperocho, Meralco has yet to identify pilot areas, but they want to deploy in locations with good communication networks, such as Manila and Pasig City.

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has so far approved the rollout of 140,000 prepaid smart meters within Meralco’s franchise area.

As the AMI rules are still pending with the ERC, which seeks to review cost that could be passed on to consumers, Meralco cannot fully implement the program.

Meralco senior vice president Ferdinand Geluz said the pilot could help regulators “see the full extent of the benefits.”

—Meg J. Adonis