Philippines: Meralco signs agreement with EDF to study nuclear energy

Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has signed a deal with France’s EDF to study the viability of nuclear energy in the Philippines. Under the agreement, EDF will provide technical and strategic support to Meralco for a feasibility study covering site assessment and power system integration. Manny V. Pangilinan, chair and CEO of Meralco, said that the deal contributes to the Philippines’ government efforts for energy security and gives his company a leadership position in advancing nuclear power. He added that he is looking forward to deepening cooperation with France in the nuclear sector.
Vakisasai Ramany, EDF senior vice president for international nuclear development, said the agreement could start a long-term collaboration with Meralco. EDF will also provide training on nuclear reactor technology and seek potential funding from the French government. According to Meralco, the deal follows in the steps of previous collaborations with several French institutions, including Université Paris-Saclay and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission. The company has also launched a program called FISSION (Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering) to develop local expertise in nuclear energy.