Philippines biggest power utility Manila Electric Co (Meralco) is expanding its links with South Korean companies as it considers nuclear development. Meralco officials visiting South Korea have finalised a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with DL Engineering & Construction to explore the potential deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) in the Philippines. The agreement will facilitate feasibility studies, site assessments and long-term strategic planning. Meralco is exploring SMRs for possible use in off-grid areas.
During the visit, Meralco said it also engaged with existing partners Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), Samsung C&T Corp and LG Energy Solutions. According to Meralco Executive Vice President & COO Ronnie Aperocho these strategic contacts reinforce the company’s commitment to the “responsible development of nuclear energy”. He added: “By partnering with global leaders with deep institutional knowledge, technical expertise and actual experience in operating nuclear facilities, we are building our own capabilities to ensure sustainable and safe adoption of nuclear energy in the Philippines.”
As well as SMRs, Meralco also remains open to developing large-scale nuclear reactors, looking at a potential capacity of up to 1,200 MWe. “The insights and best practices we’ve gained will help us in our thrust to contribute to the development of the energy industry and, more importantly, to support our country’s long-term energy security,” Aperocho said.
The Philippine Energy Plan envisages at least 1,200 MWe of nuclear capacity by 2032 increasing to 2,400 MWe by 2035 and 4,800 MWe by 2050. Meralco has also signed an agreement with KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS) to send Filipino engineers to South Korea. KINGS offers an industry-integrated curriculum specifically designed for nuclear operations and reactor management.
