MORE Power steps up ‘smart’ grid push in Iloilo

MANILA, Philippines — Razon-led MORE Electric and Power Corp. has advanced its grid modernization efforts with the energization of Iloilo City’s first fully unmanned power substation.

The 30-megavolt-ampere facility marks a shift toward a more digital and automated “smart” grid, designed to keep pace with the city’s rising energy demand amid expanding economic activity.

Equipped with a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, the substation can be monitored and operated entirely from a remote control center. This enables real-time oversight and more efficient grid management.

“In other places, SCADA and automation are already in use. Advanced technology exists, so why not leverage it, especially with MORE Power here to deliver the same high-quality services to consumers,” said Mark Anthony Molano, substation project manager.

MORE Power said the technology boosts grid reliability by allowing automated fault detection that can swiftly isolate issues and restore power within seconds.

“Furthermore, the SCADA framework provides a ‘digital brain’ for the grid, enabling predictive maintenance and data-driven forecasting to prevent overloads,” the company said.

While operations are remotely managed, the lone power utility in Iloilo City assured the public that the technology remains secure.

MORE Power has expanded the use of artificial intelligence (AI) across its operations and continued the rollout of smart meters.

The company plans to use AI-powered analytics to quickly identify anomalies across the network and respond faster to service interruptions.

“As MORE Power moves forward with its plans for 2026, we are not only preparing for immediate expansion but also future-proofing Iloilo’s energy system, creating a smart, resilient and sustainable electricity grid for years to come,” MORE Power president and CEO Roel Castro said.