The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has enlisted more foreign universities as knowledge partners for its nuclear energy push.
Meralco signed memoranda of understanding (MOU) with North American institutions Ontario Tech University in Canada and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the United States.
The power distributor also visited China to sign an MOU with Harbin Engineering University and Tsinghua University which are both partners of the China National Nuclear Corp. Overseas Ltd.
Meralco said the partnerships with foreign universities ensure the provision of adequate knowledge on managing a nuclear power plant, including best practices in the study of nuclear energy.
The company said these agreements are also expected to lead into co-development and implementation of nuclear energy related programs and the conduct of joint research projects that will be beneficial to the adoption of a new power source in the country.
“Our commitment to explore the adoption of nuclear energy in the country is reinforced by these milestone collaborations with reputable international institutions. These partnerships will help us in having greater understanding of nuclear technologies, ensuring that challenges are addressed, and plans are well aligned with the government policies prior to deployment,” said Ronnie Aperocho, Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Meralco said the move will also strengthen its own nuclear energy program through which the company will equip Filipinos with expertise on the nuclear power industry.
The company in 2023 launched its Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering (FISSION) program through the Meralco Power Academy (MPA).
The first batch of FISSION scholars is scheduled to begin their three or four-year nuclear engineering program in the United States and China.
MPA, the energy education unit of Meralco, and with the help of local academe, shortlisted the top universities offering international graduate programs on nuclear energy based on world-ranking, track record, access to nuclear energy laboratories and ongoing research on small and micro modular reactors.
Upon the scholars’ return to the Philippines in 2028, they will be reintegrated into Meralco and assigned a role in its nuclear power generation unit.
“Through FISSION, we hope to cultivate the next generation of strong innovators in the field of nuclear energy, empowering and further enhancing the competencies of energy professionals to advance sustainable energy solutions for the country,” Aperocho said.
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