The strategic partnership aims to support the Philippine government’s goal of achieving long-term energy security by integrating nuclear power into the country's energy mix.
“Nuclear power is one viable path toward that goal,” said Meralco chair and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan in a statement. “We see this cooperation as a significant first step for Meralco, and we are committed to taking a leadership role in advancing nuclear energy in the Philippines.”
Under the MOC, EDF will extend technical and strategic assistance to Meralco in conducting a feasibility study. This includes evaluating potential sites, system integration with the national grid, and the economic viability of adopting nuclear energy. EDF will also deliver tailored training programs on nuclear reactor technology and project management for Meralco personnel.
In addition to capacity-building efforts, both parties will work together to identify and pursue funding opportunities, including potential support from the French government, to jumpstart the Philippines' nuclear energy program.
“This is the beginning of what we envision as a remarkable, long-term journey, one that could span the next hundred years,” said EDF’s senior vice president for international nuclear development, Vakisasai Ramany.
This partnership builds on Meralco’s various engagements with Université Paris-Saclay (UPS) and top nuclear institutions in France for possible collaborations on capacity building and knowledge sharing in a bid to advance its nuclear energy strategic transition (NEST) initiative.
Meralco and Meralco Power Academy (MPA) tapped UPS as a partner institution for their Filipino scholars and interns on Nuclear Engineering (FISSION) program which cultivates the next generation of strong innovators in the field of nuclear energy.
They also engaged several French government research and industrial institutions such as the Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority, and The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission to explore potential partnerships on knowledge sharing on nuclear energy. — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
