The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with French state-owned power giant Électricité de France SA (EDF) to explore the potential deployment of nuclear energy in the Philippines — a move aimed at strengthening the country’s long-term energy security.
Under a two-year memorandum of cooperation, EDF will provide Meralco with technical support and strategic guidance in conducting feasibility studies, including assessments on site readiness, grid integration, and the economic viability of nuclear power in the country.
“One of the Philippine government’s key objectives is to achieve greater energy security for our country, and nuclear power is one viable path toward that goal,” said Meralco chair and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan. “We see this cooperation as a significant first step for Meralco, and we are committed to taking a leadership role in advancing nuclear energy in the Philippines.”
EDF, one of the world’s largest nuclear energy operators, will also offer specialized training in nuclear reactor technologies and project management. It will assist Meralco in preparations for future deployment and in exploring financing options, including support from the French government.
“Through this important first step—and the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with you—we hope to make real progress at your site as well,” said EDF senior vice president for International Nuclear Development Vakisasai Ramany. “This is the beginning of what we envision as a remarkable, long-term journey, one that could span the next hundred years.”
The partnership builds on Meralco’s nuclear energy transition initiative and follows earlier engagements with French institutions. In 2024, Meralco began talks with the French government for nuclear research collaborations.
Through the Meralco Power Academy, the utility is working with Université Paris-Saclay under the Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering (F-SINE) program to cultivate a new generation of Filipino nuclear experts.
Meralco is also in discussion with French agencies including the Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission to explore collaborations on nuclear safety and knowledge-sharing.
As the Philippines’ largest electric distribution utility, Meralco said the agreement with EDF underscores its commitment to exploring innovative, sustainable, and secure energy solutions to meet the nation’s increasing power demand.
