Through its energy education arm, the Meralco Power Academy (MPA), the utility signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS).
Driving nuclear education
Beginning March 2026, Meralco will send Filipino scholars to pursue advanced studies in nuclear engineering under the company’s Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering (FISSION) program.
KINGS, established by Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO), offers an industry-integrated curriculum with access to live plant data, simulators, field visits, and digital learning environments focused on reactor management and nuclear operations.
Beyond the classroom
Meralco also explored further collaborations with KEPCO on smart grid modernization, storm hardening, and energy transition strategies. These include advanced metering infrastructure rollout, grid automation, data analytics, and distributed energy resource integration.
As part of mutual capability-building, MPA will host more than 20 students from KEPCO-operated Sudo Electric Technical High School in early 2026. Since 2023, 71 students have already joined the Philippine Technical and Cultural Immersion Program under MPA.
Expanding partnerships
During a recent visit to South Korea, Meralco signed another MOU with DL Engineering & Construction to explore the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the Philippines.
The agreement covers feasibility studies, site assessments, and long-term strategic planning, with Meralco citing SMRs as a “future-ready solution,” particularly for off-grid areas.
Meralco executives also met with existing partners Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (KHNP), Samsung C&T Corporation, and LG Energy Solutions. The latter operates South Korea’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at its Namwon Substation.
What they’re saying
“Our strategic engagements in South Korea underscore our commitment to the responsible development of nuclear energy,” Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie L. Aperocho said.
“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,” he added.
The big picture
Through its NEST program, Meralco is exploring multiple deployment pathways for the integration of nuclear power into the Philippine energy mix. The company views nuclear as a long-term, low-carbon energy solution that can bolster energy security while prioritizing the welfare and wellbeing of Filipinos. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
