The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has formally approved the Amended Rules for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), providing the first major update since 2016 and setting the stage for a nationwide rollout of smart meters.

The new rules streamline the approval process for utilities, allowing distribution companies to implement AMI systems under a single capital expenditure application or through the reset process. AMI connects smart meters, communication platforms, and data management systems, enabling real-time electricity monitoring, automated billing, outage detection, and remote service management.

Under the amended framework, consumers will gain near real-time access to their energy usage through the Consumer Meter Data Channel (CMDC), while utilities must comply with updated technical standards, cybersecurity protocols, and consumer data privacy safeguards.

“The new AMI Rules mark a milestone in the digital transformation of the country’s power distribution sector. By enabling real-time data exchange and empowering both utilities and consumers, we are laying the foundation for a smarter, more secure, and inclusive energy future,” said ERC Chairperson and CEO Francis Saturnino C. Juan.

The update aligns with the Department of Energy’s Smart Grid Roadmap and other market reforms, including Retail Competition and Open Access, the Green Energy Option Program, and Net-Metering for renewable energy. By standardizing AMI systems, the ERC aims to facilitate integration of renewable energy, energy storage, and distributed energy resources, while improving grid reliability and efficiency.

The Commission said it will issue supplemental guidelines on accreditation, performance standards, and reporting requirements to ensure consistent compliance across all utilities.

With ERC’s AMI rules now approved, how quickly can Philippine utilities and consumers adapt to smart meters, and what impact will this have on energy efficiency and grid resilience?

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.