Primelectric Looks to the Future of Power Distribution at U.S. Technology Conference

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Primelectric Looks to the Future of Power Distribution at U.S. Technology Conference

San Diego, California — As the global energy sector shifts toward smarter, cleaner, and more decentralized systems, Primelectric Holdings is strengthening its efforts to future-proof electricity distribution in the Philippines by learning from international best practices.

Led by President and Chief Executive Officer Roel Z. Castro, Primelectric’s delegation took part in the Distribution Technology Conference and Exhibit (DTECH) in San Diego, California. The group included representatives from Primelectric’s distribution utilities—MORE Power, Negros Power, and Bohol Light—along with officials from the Department of Energy and the Energy Regulatory Commission.

The Philippine delegation was hosted by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, which brought together utilities, regulators, and technology providers to discuss how emerging innovations are transforming electricity distribution, particularly at the community and last-mile level.

“We are thankful for the opportunity to learn from global experiences,” Castro said. “Seeing how advanced power systems combine technology, policy, and regulation helps us better understand how we can responsibly modernize our own distribution networks.”

From Consumers to Prosumers

One of the central topics at the conference was the rapid growth of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)—such as rooftop solar, battery storage, and electric vehicles—which allow customers not only to consume electricity but also to generate and export power back to the grid.

“Customers are no longer just end-users,” Castro explained. “They are becoming partners in the energy system. This shift creates exciting opportunities, but it also requires smarter and more flexible distribution networks.”

Two-way power flows introduce technical and safety challenges that traditional systems were not designed to handle. Utilities must now deploy advanced sensors, automated controls, and modern protection equipment to maintain system stability.

Keeping Reliability and Safety at the Core

Despite rapid technological change, Castro emphasized that reliability and safety remain top priorities.

“New technologies should strengthen—not compromise—service quality,” he said. “They must help us detect issues earlier, respond faster, and protect both our line workers and our customers.”

Discussions at DTECH highlighted solutions such as enhanced protection schemes, real-time monitoring, and islanding capabilities that prevent solar systems from energizing lines during outages.

Aligning Technology and Regulation

Beyond hardware and software, the conference also examined how policy and regulation must evolve alongside innovation. Sessions explored how regulators can encourage clean energy adoption while ensuring affordability, consumer protection, and grid stability.

“There must be alignment between technology and policy,” Castro noted. “You cannot move one forward without the other.”

Insights gained by Philippine regulators during the conference could support the development of local frameworks as more households and businesses adopt solar energy, storage, and electric vehicles.

Creating New Value for Customers

The rise of prosumers opens new possibilities for customers to earn from excess generation or participate in demand-response programs that reward efficient energy use.

“This changes the traditional utility-customer relationship,” Castro said. “It’s no longer just about selling electricity—it’s about enabling participation and creating shared value.”

Building a Future-Ready Distribution System

A recurring message throughout the event was the importance of collaboration among utilities, regulators, technology providers, and international partners.

“No single organization can do this alone,” Castro said. “Continuous learning and cooperation are essential.”

As Primelectric brings these lessons home, the company remains focused on a clear objective: building a safe, reliable, and future-ready power distribution system that allows Filipino consumers to benefit from new technologies while enjoying the quality of service they expect.

“The energy landscape is changing,” Castro concluded. “By learning early and adapting thoughtfully, we can make sure our customers are ready for what’s next.”

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Tito J (Bacolod Blogger)

Tito J 9Bacolod Blogger) is a visual artist, educator, entrepreneur and management consultant based in Negros, Philippines. He writes about creativity, travel, work culture, entrepreneurship, and everyday observations drawn from years of teaching in graduate and doctoral programs, running an award-winning design gallery, and working closely with organizations and communities. Through his blog, he shares thoughtful reflections on design, productivity, public service, and the human side of work—always grounded in real experience.