The Manila Electric Company, or Meralco, the country's largest power distributor, has powered up a P597-million smart substation that energizes  Ayala Land Inc.'s Arca South development and the nearby communities in Taguig City.

The new 115 kV-34.5 kV gas-insulated switchgear substation was commissioned with an initial capacity of 83 megavolt amperes but will ultimately house three transformer banks with a combined capacity of 249 MVA.

"As we continue to build upon the foundations of Arca South, we are ensuring that the energy needs of this community are met with efficiency and resilience," Robert Lao, Ayala Land senior vice president and group head for Ayala Land Estates, said.

"This substation represents more than just a physical structure; it represents our dedication to sustainable urban development. It is a cornerstone of progress, enabling us to power homes, businesses, and innovations that will drive Arca South's growth and development," he added.

Support to commercial customers

Meanwhile, Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie L. Aperocho said the development of the Arca South substation forms part of Meralco's support to commercial customers.

"The opportunity to participate in the master planning of Ayala estates has allowed Meralco to serve more customers and further cement our commitment to keep the lights on," he said.

As a testament to that, this newly energized smart substation in Arca South Taguig will provide safe, adequate, and reliable capacity to serve the existing and future power requirements of this particular Ayala Land development, and the adjacent communities in the area," Aperocho added during the recent inauguration of the project.