Meralco, Kepco firm up collab for new power tech

MANILA, Philippines — Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) is ratcheting up its game through a stronger collaboration with Korea Electric Power Corp. (Kepco), which would cover advanced technologies including nuclear energy.

The power distribution giant on Tuesday said it inked a memorandum of understanding with the South Korean firm to enhance “technical cooperation and exchange programs in the field of new energy technology.”

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Meralco said the deal would involve nuclear energy, renewable energy, smart grids, microgrids, energy storage systems, electric vehicles, advanced metering infrastructure, smart substations and distribution automation.

“This memorandum of understanding marks an important step for both Kepco and Meralco. Enshrined here is a commitment to exchange knowledge, strengthen capabilities, and work together toward a smarter, more resilient energy future,” Meralco chair and chief executive officer Manuel V. Pangilinan said in a statement.

“This collaboration allows us to refine our strategies, integrate new technologies, and find better ways to power the future. Beyond the business objectives, we want to forge and strengthen relationships that will drive meaningful progress,” he added.

Smart metering

Last November, both parties also signed a pact to advance the use of smart metering technologies in the country.

Meralco has businesses in power distribution, generation and retail electricity supply.

The company delivers electricity to more than eight million consumers in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Rizal and select areas in Pampanga, Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon.

The group earlier reported an all-time high in earnings, which reached P45.1 billion in 2024. Meralco’s distribution business continued contributing the biggest chunk of the bottom line, chipping in P28.1 billion.

This, as energy sales went up by 6 percent to 54,325 gigawatt hours (GWh) from 51,044 GWh. —Lisbet K. Esmael INQ