Meralco to Invest PHP 70 Billion in Smart Metering & Grid Modernization

Background & Industry Context

As the global energy mix evolves and digitalisation accelerates, smart-grid and advanced-metering systems have become cornerstones of power-sector modernisation. In Southeast Asia, the Philippines is fast-tracking smart-meter roll-outs to improve distribution efficiency, strengthen disaster resilience, and enhance customer experience.

Strategic Investment Breakdown

Under its five-year plan, Meralco will invest PHP 70 billion (~USD 1.2 billion) in two key areas:

PHP 30 billion (~USD 520 million) to harden transmission- and distribution-assets against typhoons, earthquakes and other natural hazards.

PHP 40 billion (~USD 690 million) to deploy 4 million smart meters, upgrading end-user data collection nationwide.

Phase-One Roll-out (2025 – 2026)

According to the plan, the initial deployment of smart meters will officially start from 2025:

Initial install: 390 000 meters

Budget: PHP 4.56 billion (~USD 80 million)

Expected gains: real-time reads, demand-shifting, detailed consumption profiling

Technical Advantages & System Value

Smart meters are the bridge between end users and smart grids, and have the following advantages:

Two-way comms：Remote data acquisition & control without manual meter-reading

Usage transparency：Consumers view real-time load curves and optimise usage

Billing accuracy：Minimises estimates, improves bill trustworthiness

Fault response：Auto-localises outages, speeds restoration

International Collaboration & Knowledge Transfer

To localise technology and align with global best practice, Meralco has signed an MOU with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) covering technical training, system-integration know-how, and smart-grid design methodologies.

Smart-Meter Penetration in Southeast Asia (2024 est.)

Conclusion

Meralco’s landmark investment marks a pivotal step in its infrastructure makeover and heralds a broader transition of the Philippine power sector toward digital, intelligent operations. Smart meters will bridge utilities and consumers, driving simultaneous gains in energy efficiency and sustainability.