Philippines-based utility Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and Cisco say they are collaborating on a holistic approach to providing reliable computing and networking infrastructure as a foundation for operations on a smart grid.
Investing in enterprise computing and smart grids will help enhance automation and intelligence at critical points within the Meralco network, which the utility says will enable it to achieve higher efficiency in operations and deliver better services to customers.
"Legacy grid infrastructure, rising power generation costs and emerging technologies are driving the company to pursue a new and more intelligent distribution network. We needed an IT infrastructure that is robust, flexible and highly secure, yet cost-effective,” says Marthyn Cuan, Meralco's vice president and chief information officer.
“We are collaborating with Cisco, given their heritage in transformative technology, and having been consistently recognized in the IT industry as a leader in networking technology with a broad line of innovative products. Most importantly, they approached us from a solutions perspective," continues Cuan.
"Cisco is in a unique position to help lead energy organizations make the transformation to smart grids. From a technology standpoint, our Connected Grid portfolio includes industry-leading networking equipment, computing platforms, integrated software services and professional services that cover the spectrum of functional requirements for a scalable, reliable and highly secure smart grid,” says Stephen Misa, managing director for Cisco in the Philippines.
