Smart metering to boost MORE Power’s digital shift

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

MORE Electric and Power Corp. (MORE Power) has taken a major step toward digitalization through a pilot project on the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system.

Roel Castro, president of MORE Power, formalized the partnership with Electro Premier Venture International Inc. and Atty. Rica Gatchalian in a memorandum of agreement signed on July 10.

“We are excited to supply the advanced metering infrastructure requirements for this pilot project, especially here in Iloilo—a smart city leading the way in innovation,” Gatchalian said.

Unlike traditional meters, AMI uses digital devices that record electricity usage at short intervals, allowing utilities and customers to exchange data in real time or near real time.

Utilities can remotely read meters, detect tampering, monitor outages, manage voltage, and connect or disconnect service.

Under the agreement, Electro Premier will provide, install, and commission the full AMI system, including the head-end system, communication infrastructure, and metering units.

The deployment includes 90 single-phase smart meters for residential users and 10 three-phase smart meters for commercial users.

All meters are equipped with advanced features such as real-time energy monitoring, outage detection, and remote connection or disconnection.

Electro Premier, a Philippines-based company specializing in power technology and metering systems, will shoulder the cost of the pilot project.

MORE Power said the new technology will improve grid reliability, enhance operational efficiency, and empower consumers to make informed energy choices, contributing to a greener environment.

The project aligns with the Energy Regulatory Commission’s rules governing the implementation of AMI systems by distribution utilities and ERC-authorized entities.

The rules cover the installation, operation, maintenance, and management of AMI systems, including smart meters, communication networks, and data management platforms.

One key objective of AMI rollout is to modernize the electric distribution system and improve the accuracy and reliability of metering and billing.

“The pilot will serve as a testing ground to evaluate key assumptions related to cost, technology, and implementation strategies before the full Program Delivery Plan is rolled out,” MORE Power said in a statement.