Meralco-backed power coop fires up substation

MANILA, Philippines — An electric cooperative co-managed by tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan’s Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) is now operating its first mobile substation in Mabalacat City, Pampanga.

Pampanga 2 Electric Cooperative (PELCO II) has recently switched on the 10-megavolt-ampere (MVA) Mabiga Substation meant to address the growing power demand in the city.

The new facility, Meralco said, would provide flexible capacity to PELCO II’s distribution network, augmenting the existing power capacity in Mabalacat and other areas served by the electric cooperative.

“We are working closely with the local government and other relevant stakeholders to continuously implement innovative solutions and projects that will benefit our consumers in the long term,” PELCO II chief management advisor Joe-Mel Zaporteza said.

To further cater to rising energy demand, PELCO II is also constructing a new 20-MVA substation set for energization early next year.

It likewise plans to activate more substations in the coming years as part of its aggressive capacity building.

Since 2014, Meralco has been managing PELCO II with its local partner, Comstech Integration Alliance Inc.

“Meralco has always been willing to extend support to other industry players, from whom we also gain relevant learnings that help us collectively improve the energy industry,” Meralco chief external and government affairs officer Arnel Casanova said.

By empowering PELCO II, Meralco wants to drive economic growth in the province and help more Filipinos have access to “reliable, stable and efficient electricity service,” Casanova said.

Last year, PELCO II inaugurated the 20-MVA Santa Barbara Substation in Bacolor, Pampanga.