The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is advancing its Nuclear Energy Strategic Transition (NEST) program through a series of new collaborations with South Korea’s leading energy and technology institutions, underscoring its commitment to a safe and sustainable nuclear future for the Philippines.
One of the key highlights of the trip was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Meralco Power Academy (MPA) and the KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS). Beginning March 2026, Filipino scholars will train at KINGS under Meralco’s Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering (FISSION) program, giving them access to industry-integrated curricula, live plant data, simulators, and advanced reactor management systems.
Meralco also deepened its partnership with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to explore smart grid modernization and energy transition strategies. The discussions covered advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) rollout, grid automation, data analytics, distributed energy integration, and storm hardening solutions—all critical to modernizing the Philippines’ energy landscape.
In parallel, Meralco is looking ahead with future-ready technologies. An agreement with DL Engineering & Construction was signed to study the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the country, including feasibility studies and site assessments. SMRs are seen as a promising solution to meet the energy needs of off-grid areas and ensure reliable, low-carbon power supply.
To further strengthen bilateral knowledge-sharing, MPA will host over 20 Korean students from KEPCO’s Sudo Electric Technical High School in early 2026, continuing a cultural and technical immersion program that has already brought 71 students to the Philippines since 2023.
Meralco’s delegation also visited South Korean partners including Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (KHNP), Samsung C&T Corporation, and LG Energy Solutions—whose Namwon Substation hosts the country’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)—to explore additional synergies in energy innovation.
“Our strategic engagements in South Korea underscore our commitment to the responsible development of nuclear energy. By learning from global leaders with institutional expertise and operational experience, we are strengthening the Philippines’ capability to adopt nuclear power safely and sustainably,” said Ronnie L. Aperocho, Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.
“The insights and best practices we’ve gained will not only fortify our NEST program but also contribute to the country’s long-term energy security, while ensuring the welfare of every Filipino,” he added.
Through its NEST program, Meralco continues to pursue a multi-track approach that evaluates all viable pathways for nuclear integration into the Philippine energy mix—positioning nuclear power as a long-term, low-carbon energy solution to support national development.
