Meralco Plans to Relocate Power Lines Underground to Address Spaghetti Wires

The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) announced its intention to move power lines underground as part of efforts to address the issue of spaghetti wires and enhance storm resiliency.

Meralco Chief Operating Officer Ronnie Aperocho shared the company’s plans during a Senate Committee on Public Services hearing on Monday, as Meralco sought approval for a new 25-year franchise.

“Sa budget namin sa next five years, kasama na po yung malaking capex (capital expenditure) para sa pagbaba ng linya namin from overhead to underground,” Aperocho said.
(In our budget for the next five years, a significant capital expenditure is already allocated for relocating power lines from overhead to underground.)

Addressing Safety and Resilience

The move to underground lines is intended not only to improve aesthetics by eliminating unsightly dangling wires but also to enhance storm hardening and resiliency.

Aperocho explained that during the pandemic lockdowns, the rise in internet connections led to an influx of lines attached to electrical posts by internet service providers and telecommunication companies.

“With so many wires, Meralco really had to address them because aside from looking unsightly, they have become a risk to our facilities. If overloading happens, our posts could tumble down, creating safety issues,” he said.

Support for Underground Power Lines

In July, the Metro Manila Council approved a resolution encouraging local government units to regulate and monitor the installation of dangling wires and overhead cables. Additionally, bills filed in the House of Representatives aim to require utility providers to:

• Properly organize sagging and dangling aerial utility wires.
• Remove unused or non-operational wires.
• Ensure compliance with clearance requirements for aerial cables.

These measures aim to reduce potential hazards and improve public safety.

Moving Forward

With underground lines already included in Meralco’s capital expenditure for the next five years, this initiative aligns with efforts to modernize infrastructure, enhance safety, and adapt to the increasing frequency of severe storms in the Philippines.