MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) and South Korea’s Samsung C&T Corp. Engineering & Construction Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance the adoption of nuclear energy projects in the Philippines in support of the government’s efforts to achieve long-term energy security.
Under the MOU, Meralco and Samsung C&T will share and discuss technical design and capabilities on nuclear technology and the prevailing regulatory framework, energy landscape and necessary grid infrastructure.
Ronnie Aperocho, Meralco chief operating officer, and Jungwook Kim, Samsung C&T president for global operations, led the ceremonial signing of the agreement held on the sidelines of The Philippines-Korea Business Forum in Manila last week.
This is the second MOU signed by Meralco with a South Korean firm for a nuclear energy partnership.
The two companies will also explore the potential rollout of a pilot demonstration project and other opportunities for nuclear power plant development.
Samsung C&T is an international construction company with strong nuclear energy knowhow and commitment.
The MOU also signifies Samsung C&T’s plans to actively engage in the construction of large nuclear power plant and small modular reactor (SMR) projects in the Philippines.
“Through this MOU, Meralco stands to gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical aspects of nuclear energy development that will ensure that our future decisions are well-informed and aligned with international best practices. This aligns well with Meralco’s continuous efforts to work with global knowledge and technology partners to help us in our transition towards more diversified and sustainable energy sources,” Aperocho said in a statement.
Manuel Pangilinan, Meralco chairman, said the collaboration with Samsung C&T “cements” the company’s commitment to take an active role in contributing to the Philippine government’s efforts to integrate nuclear energy in the country’s future power supply mix.
“As we collectively work on the safe and secure adoption of this next generation technology, we remain focused to our ultimate goal of ensuring energy security and achieving sustainable and inclusive growth in the Philippines,” Pangilinan said.
Prior to the signing, Meralco also inked a separate MOU with South Korea’s Doosan Enerbility Co. Ltd. to explore strategic collaborations on developing low-carbon energy projects in the Philippines.
The partnership also signed last week will focus on several key initiatives, such as the potential deployment of nuclear power facilities in the country, including the rehabilitation of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP).
