Primelectric Sets Sights on World-Class Power Distribution: A Major Step Toward World-Class Power Services in the Philippines

Primelectric is pushing the boundaries of what reliable, efficient, and consumer-centered power service can look like in the Philippines. In a bold move to elevate energy standards across its service areas, the company recently embarked on a benchmarking mission to Seoul, South Korea—one of the world’s most technologically advanced nations in power distribution.

Led by Primelectric President and CEO Roel Castro, the delegation visited the Transmission and Distribution Headquarters of the Korean Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), a global benchmark recognized for having the World’s Best Transmission and Distribution Efficiency. What they discovered may soon shape the future of electric distribution in the Philippines.

Why South Korea? Understanding KEPCO’s Global Reputation

KEPCO is not just another power utility—it is considered one of the best-run electricity providers in the world. It maintains:

• System loss of only 3.53%

• System average incident frequency index (SAIFI) of 0.6% per year

These numbers reveal a near-zero occurrence of unexpected power interruptions—something consumers in many countries only dream of.

South Korea achieved this through decades of investment in automation, digitization, safety culture, and advanced engineering. This makes KEPCO the ideal model for Filipino companies aiming to modernize electric distribution.

Inside KEPCO: Learning from a System Built on Technology and Precision

During the visit, Primelectric officials were given an in-depth look at South Korea’s technological backbone—an ecosystem anchored on reliability and efficiency.

1. Advanced Distribution Network: Underground, Insulated, and Smart

South Korea’s distribution system is designed for resilience:

• 12.3% of distribution lines are underground, especially in commercial and business districts
• All overhead lines are fully insulated
• Thousands of Automatic Circuit Reclosers (ACRs) restore power in as fast as one second

This infrastructure drastically reduces outages and enhances safety in even the most congested areas.

2. Unmanned and Digitally Controlled Substations

Primelectric officials witnessed KEPCO’s highly automated substations:

• No on-site personnel
• Remotely operated control panels and switches
• Digitized monitoring systems
• Real-time problem detection and response

This setup reduces human error and ensures quicker restoration during faults.

3. Live Line Maintenance: No Power Shutdowns Needed

One of the most impressive demonstrations was KEPCO’s live line maintenance — enabling technicians to perform repairs without disrupting power supply. This innovation alone sets KEPCO apart from many global utilities.

This capability is made possible by:

• Specialized equipment
• Advanced safety tools
• Highly trained linemen
• Strict safety protocols

It is a system that values both consumer convenience and technician protection.

The Role of Safety: KEPCO’s Culture of Protection and Precision

Primelectric officials expressed admiration for KEPCO’s heavy emphasis on worker safety. From specialized gear to structured maintenance procedures, every detail is designed to minimize risk.

This commitment to safety impressed the delegation, knowing how crucial it is in the Philippine context where linemen often face challenging conditions.

Primelectric’s Vision: Bringing World-Class Standards Home

CEO Roel Castro shared that the South Korea benchmarking mission is not just about observing technology—it’s about adopting a mindset that prioritizes efficiency, reliability, and consumer welfare.

“What we saw in KEPCO is not just technology, but a mindset—a culture of efficiency, reliability, and safety. This is the level of service we want to bring to our consumers,”
— Roel Castro, President & CEO, Primelectric

To accelerate this transformation, Primelectric is preparing to send engineers to the KEPCO Academy, where they will undergo intensive training on:

• Smart grid systems
• Digital substations
• Live line maintenance
• Use of modern tools and equipment

This will fast-track the adoption of world-class practices within Primelectric’s operating units.

Impact on MORE Power, Negros Power, and Bohol Light

The modernization plan will influence the operations of:

• MORE Power in Iloilo City
• Negros Power
• Bohol Light Company, Inc.

And potentially other expansion areas under Primelectric. Consumers can expect:

• Reduced power interruptions
• Faster restoration during outages
• Safer and more efficient line maintenance
• Improved power quality
• Better protection of electrical equipment at home and in businesses

These improvements will position the Philippines closer to global distribution standards.

A Future Powered by Modernization

With the delegation now back in the Philippines, Primelectric is preparing to implement KEPCO-inspired strategies step by step, ensuring a smooth and sustainable transition to modern systems.

This move signals a major shift in the Philippine power sector—one driven by innovation, global alignment, and genuine commitment to consumer satisfaction.

Primelectric’s benchmarking initiative marks the beginning of a long-term transformation that could redefine the quality of power distribution in the country.

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