THE Manila Electric Co, (Meralco) and its power generation arm Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN) have engaged US-based engineering firm Sargent and Lundy and AMH Philippines, Inc. to conduct a feasibility study on deploying small modular reactors (SMR) in the Philippines.
The comprehensive study is targeted for completion by the fourth quarter of 2027.
The study marks the next step in the $2.8-million technical assistance program funded by the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), which was formally announced last February. The study aims to provide Meralco with a rigorous, data-driven basis for determining whether, when, and how SMRs could form part of the country’s future energy mix. A dedicated SMR working group has been established within the Meralco group to lead the study and coordinate closely with SandL and AMH.
Sargent and Lundy will lead a vendor-neutral, US-focused SMR assessment program aligned with relevant International Atomic Energy Agency standards and international best practices. The study will examine key considerations for potential SMR deployment, including technology assessment and site selection, grid integration, financial and commercial planning, decision-making frameworks, and stakeholder capacity building through a dedicated series of workshops.
‘Partnering with Sargent and Lundy marks a pivotal step in turning our nuclear roadmap into actionable, data-driven decisions under our ‘Nest’ program,’ MGEN President Emmanuel V. Rubio said.
‘As we advance this USTDA-funded study, MGEN remains committed to exploring safe, reliable, and low-carbon technologies such as SMRs as we work to secure the Philippines’ long-term energy future and support the country’s economic growth,’ Rubio added.
The engagement will also strengthen the technical capacity of key Philippine stakeholders, including MGEN, the Department of Energy and the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority by providing practical frameworks and tools that can support informed decision-making as the country advances its nuclear energy roadmap.
‘By bringing together a dedicated internal working group, alongside global and local experts, we are undertaking a comprehensive assessment that considers the technical, financial, and regulatory realities of the Philippine setting.
The study goes beyond identifying suitable technologies and potential sites. It will also build the technical capacity and decision-making frameworks that can support MGEN and our national stakeholders well beyond the completion of the study,’ MGEN Head of Strategic Energy Transition Felino M. Bernardo said.