In a significant leap toward digital transformation and smarter energy management, MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) has entered into a strategic partnership with Electro Premier Venture International Incorporated to launch a pilot Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project in Iloilo City.
The landmark Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was formally signed by MORE Power President Roel Z. Castro and Atty. Rica Gatchalian, President of Electro Premier Venture, during a ceremony that underscores a shared commitment to modernizing the city’s power distribution network through cutting-edge smart grid technologies.
Electro Premier Venture is a Philippine-based company specializing in electrical power equipment and advanced metering systems. Its collaboration with MORE Power is aimed at transforming how electricity is measured, monitored, and managed in Iloilo City — a place increasingly recognized as a model for smart urban development.
“This partnership is more than just a technology upgrade; it’s a step toward empowering consumers with real-time energy insights while boosting system reliability and operational efficiency,” said Castro. “We are building the grid of the future, starting today.”
The project is aligned with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC)’s AMI Rules, approved on April 12, 2016, which mandate distribution utilities and authorized entities to roll out AMI systems nationwide. The pilot initiative represents MORE Power’s compliance with these regulations and its proactive stance in pioneering digital solutions within its franchise area.
Atty. Rica Gatchalian, President of Electro Premier Venture, expressed confidence in the partnership:
“We are thrilled to be supporting this pilot project in Iloilo — a city leading the charge in innovation and digital transformation. With smart metering technology, we hope to enable better control, transparency, and efficiency in energy consumption.”
Pilot Scope and Deployment
As part of the agreement, Electro Premier will supply, install, and commission a complete AMI system, including:
- Head End System (HES) and communication infrastructure
- 90 units of Single-Phase Smart Meters for residential customers
- 10 units of Three-Phase Smart Meters for commercial clients
The package includes all necessary hardware, software, and technical services to ensure a successful deployment. Notably, Electro Premier will shoulder the entire cost of the pilot implementation — a move that highlights their investment in the project’s success.
What the AMI Pilot Means for Iloilo City
The installation of smart meters and AMI technology is expected to bring multiple benefits to consumers and utility operators alike, including:
- Real-time monitoring of electricity consumption
- Improved outage detection and service restoration
- Alerts for meter irregularities
- Remote connection, disconnection, and reconnection features
These advancements will not only enhance service reliability but also promote energy efficiency and demand-side management, empowering customers with better control over their electricity use.
This pilot project marks a critical first step in MORE Power’s long-term digital roadmap and affirms Iloilo City’s reputation as a forward-thinking, innovation-driven community. As the city continues to adopt smart infrastructure solutions, this initiative could serve as a model for other urban centers across the country.
