Meralco unveils PIXL, a digital twin laboratory to futureproof business operations

Meralco recently announced the launch of its Powertech Innovation and eXperience Lab (PIXL), a state-of-the-art virtual world rendering studio and metaverse.

PIXL is expected to accelerate innovation and improve Meralco’s business operations, offering a variety of functions that can aid in delivering reliable and stable electricity services to its customers. The lab features 10 short-throw high-definition projectors, a 360-degree projection wall, LED lights, and extended reality devices like Microsoft HoloLens and Oculus VR headsets.

According to Rocky D. Bacani, Meralco’s First Vice President for Information, Communication, Technology, and Transformation (ICTT), PIXL is aligned with the power distributor’s digital transformation goals. In addition, it forms part of its efforts to find new growth opportunities for customers, employees, and the future generation of engineers. PIXL’s functions include technology scanning, proof of concept, prototype development, distant learning, knowledge transfer, and remote support.

PIXL is also expected to serve as a venue for co-innovation initiatives with other electric cooperatives, regulators, and distribution utilities in the Philippines or other countries. The facility is designed to offer extended reality previews of different vital facilities. These include substations and business centers, simulations of critical incident resolutions, and remote support for the company’s workforce.

“As a leader in the energy industry, Meralco continuously invests in new technologies that will enhance our business operations to deliver consistent excellent service,” said Bacani. Meralco has embraced digital transformation through its Customer Centricity Transformation Program and Digital Projects, which aim to improve customer touchpoints, level up operational efficiencies and services to achieve better customer experience.