The grant will fund a comprehensive feasibility study on the potential deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) in the Philippines, covering technology assessment, site identification, and overall project viability.
The SMR Adoption Study is scheduled to begin later this year.
Strategic energy shift
The grant marks a significant milestone in advancing Meralco’s Nuclear Energy Strategic Transition (NEST) program, which seeks to integrate nuclear power into the country’s energy mix as a long-term, low-carbon solution to rising electricity demand and energy security concerns.
Through USTDA’s support, Meralco will gain access to American expertise and advanced U.S.-developed SMR technologies, according to a company statement
The study will include a comprehensive technical review of available SMR options and is expected to produce a shortlist of reactor designs best suited for the Philippine market.
It will also involve preliminary siting assessments to determine viable locations for future deployment.
Development plan
Beyond technology evaluation, the study aims to deliver a high-level implementation roadmap assessing commercial, financial, and regulatory readiness.
It will outline phased timelines and key milestones toward potential project development, providing a structured path for nuclear integration.
“USTDA is proud to lead the U.S. government’s efforts to develop strategic infrastructure projects that both our countries have prioritized,” Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA’s Deputy Director, said in the statement.
“Safe, secure, and safeguarded nuclear solutions offer tremendous potential for energy independence. Our funding will advance Meralco’s nuclear energy program, strengthen America’s nuclear industrial base and position trusted U.S. technologies as the foundation for the Philippines’ energy future.”
Strengthening bilateral ties
USTDA’s backing also opens doors for U.S. industry to play a key role in the Philippines’ clean energy transition, reinforcing bilateral cooperation in strategic infrastructure and energy development.
For Meralco, the grant reinforces its position as a driver of energy innovation. The company has been forging partnerships with global institutions to gather critical insights and explore transformative opportunities for safe nuclear energy adoption.
“Through the good graces of the U.S. government, we are laying the groundwork for responsible integration of nuclear energy into our overall fuel mix. This grant goes beyond funding — it is a demonstration of support from the United States for our vision, our readiness, and our capabilities to lead the adoption of nuclear energy,” said Meralco chair and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan.
He added that while the journey toward nuclear energy will be long, it is a necessary step toward securing the country’s energy future. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
