Power distributor Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) is accelerating its nuclear energy ambitions through a series of partnerships with the United States (US) government aimed at deploying small modular reactors.

In a statement, Meracl said the utility formalized a cooperation agreement with the US Trade and Development Agency on Monday, Feb. 16, securing a ₱148 million grant to fund a feasibility study for small modular reactors (SMRs).

The assessment is designed to evaluate American nuclear technologies, identify viable deployment sites across the archipelago, and establish a technical implementation roadmap for the company’s transition into nuclear generation.

Ann Ganzer, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation, said the collaboration extends beyond feasibility studies to include critical infrastructure and safety training.

An ₱82 million nuclear reactor control room simulator will be provided to the Philippines to facilitate hands-on training for future operators. This facility will allow the local workforce to practice plant operations, manage safety programs, and simulate emergency scenarios in a controlled environment before any physical reactor is commissioned.

The push for nuclear integration is being bolstered by an educational framework involving Aboitiz Power Corp., the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and Fulbright Philippines. Under this initiative, Philippine universities will partner with international institutions, including Texas A&M University and King’s College London, to build a local pipeline of nuclear engineers and technicians.

Beyond nuclear power, the US is deepening trade ties with Meralco to modernize the Philippine power grid. Ronnie L. Aperocho, Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer, said the company is prioritizing digitalization to meet evolving consumer demands and harden infrastructure against cyber threats.

He noted that the utility is increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to strengthen "grid-edge intelligence" and accelerate the transformation of its distribution network.

A central pillar of this modernization is Meralco’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure program. The company is currently targeting the deployment of 12 million smart meters across its Metro Manila franchise and neighboring provinces.

This system is designed to provide near real-time data to consumers, allowing for more efficient electricity management. The rollout will be supported by a new Grid-Edge Operations and Control Center, which will work in tandem with Meralco’s existing control systems to manage demand response programs and integrate decentralized energy resources more effectively.