Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has partnered with US-based Itron, Inc. to advance its smart grid modernization program, marking a major milestone in the country’s transition toward a more digital and sustainable energy future.
Itron, a global leader in energy and water resource management, empowers utilities and cities in over 100 countries with its innovative smart networks, software, meters, and sensors designed to deliver safe, reliable, and data-driven infrastructure services.
Building a smarter, more responsive energy system
The partnership represents a key phase in Meralco’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) program, which aims to create a more intelligent, responsive, and customer-centric energy system. The initiative aligns with the Philippines’ digitalization and sustainability goals by enabling real-time insights and operational efficiency.
“We are proud to be part of Meralco’s smart grid journey,” said John Marcolini, Itron’s Senior Vice President of Networked Solutions. “Our scalable Gen5 solution is transforming how Meralco delivers, measures, and manages electricity. It’s designed to support multiple meter brands—giving Meralco flexibility to scale and reduce costs while future-proofing its infrastructure.”
Smart solutions for a digital energy future
Itron’s AMI solution, part of its Grid Edge Intelligence portfolio, uses an open, IPv6-based network that integrates Gen5 mesh and cellular technologies. This foundation supports advanced capabilities such as smart metering, distributed energy resources (DERs), electric vehicle integration, and enhanced outage management.
Through this deployment, Meralco will enable two-way, near real-time communication between its operations and customer endpoints—allowing faster outage detection and restoration, improved billing accuracy, and greater transparency in energy consumption.
The initial rollout will manage 73,000 endpoints across Metro Manila, with a multi-year plan to expand coverage to the rest of Meralco’s franchise areas.
Empowering customers through technology
“This collaboration is pivotal in our AMI journey,” said Ronnie L. Aperocho, Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “With Itron’s Gen5 solution, we are laying the foundation for a smart grid that enhances customer experience, supports the digital economy, and builds a more sustainable power future for the Philippines.”
Commitment to energy resilience and sustainability
Serving over 8 million customers, Meralco continues to invest in smart technologies and grid innovations that strengthen network resilience, improve service reliability, and empower consumers with better energy management.
The Meralco–Itron partnership underscores the company’s broader commitment to advancing the country’s energy infrastructure, ensuring that Filipinos benefit from a reliable, efficient, and future-ready power system.