USTDA funds technical assistance for Meralco PowerGen Corp. to evaluate U.S. small modular reactor designs for the Philippines' first SMR nuclear power plant

The $1.2 million non-repayable grant from USTDA to Meralco PowerGen Corp. directly funds critical due diligence for U.S. small modular reactor designs, strategically positioning American technology for the Philippines' inaugural nuclear power plant. This funding mechanism provides Meralco PowerGen with capital to evaluate SMR options without financial risk, accelerating their assessment process for the nation's first nuclear deployment. The investment specifically targets U.S. SMR technology, creating a direct pathway for American firms to compete for future construction contracts in the Philippines. This structure ensures Meralco PowerGen can conduct a comprehensive review of U.S. SMR capabilities, a crucial step before committing to the Philippines' initial nuclear power infrastructure. The deal, announced on 2026-02-16, represents a targeted effort to embed U.S. nuclear expertise in a key Southeast Asian market. This partnership aligns directly with the U.S. Trade and Development Agency's mandate to foster U.S. job creation through the export of American goods and services for priority development projects in emerging economies like the Philippines. By funding Meralco PowerGen's evaluation of U.S. SMR designs, USTDA actively links U.S. businesses with a nascent nuclear market in Southeast Asia. Meralco PowerGen, as the recipient of this grant, gains a significant advantage in exploring advanced nuclear technology for the Philippines' first SMR nuclear power plant. The deal supports the Philippines' initial nuclear power deployment, indicating a broader governmental push towards diversifying its energy mix with SMR technology. This specific technical assistance grant could set a precedent for future U.S. engagement in the Philippines' emerging nuclear sector.