As countries across Asia accelerate their decarbonisation efforts, one critical enabler of this transformation is often overlooked: the distribution network. While attention frequently centres on generation and storage technologies, the digitalisation of power distribution plays a vital role in enabling utilities to manage growing complexity, enhance grid reliability, and empower end users.

This was the focus of Smarter Grids: Leveraging Digitalisation in Powering Asia’s Net Zero Future, a one-hour interactive webinar hosted by Enlit Asia and powered by Trilliant Networks. The discussion explored how digital tools and smarter infrastructure at the distribution level are reshaping how utilities manage assets, engage consumers, and drive efficiency—forming the backbone of national and regional net-zero strategies.

Digital Tools for a Smarter Grid

In his presentation, Eugene Loke, Managing Director of Trilliant Networks Asia Pacific, laid out the case for rethinking traditional grids. Built for predictable, one-way electricity flow, legacy infrastructure now struggles to support the bidirectional complexity of distributed energy resources, electric vehicles, and real-time customer interaction.

Loke outlined how smart grid technologies—particularly advanced metering infrastructure (AMI)—are transforming utility operations. AMI not only automates meter reading and billing, but enables time-of-use pricing, demand response programmes, distributed generation monitoring, and outage management. “Smart meters are a gateway to real-time data,” said Loke. “They help utilities respond faster, reduce technical and non-technical losses, and create new energy services for consumers.”

Trilliant’s experience across multiple countries shows how utilities can use analytics to reduce energy theft, improve supply-demand balancing, and even support the transition to Smart Grid 2.0—defined by two-way energy and information flow, edge computing, and integration of prosumer systems.

Southeast Asia's Smart Distribution Strategies

The presentation was followed by a panel session with experts from Aboitiz Power, PEA and PLN, led by Zhen Hui Eng, Director of Baringa Partners.

Indonesia’s PLN is in the early stages of a national AMI rollout. Executive Vice President of Distribution Strategic Planning, Ignatius Rendroyoko shared that the utility currently serves around 92 million customers, of which 60 million use prepaid meters and 40 million remain on legacy systems. A roadmap is underway to convert 35 million customers to AMI by 2035.

Rendroyoko noted that initial AMI pilots in eight cities—including Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and Denpasar—are already helping the utility identify both technical and non-technical losses. An unique aspect of PLN’s strategy is the island-based proof-of-concept project in Nusa Penida, which is testing eight different communication technologies—including GPRS, RPMA, HPLC, and solutions from Trilliant—to determine the best fit for Indonesia’s diverse geographic and infrastructure landscape.

The Philippines’ Aboitiz Power, which serves over one million customers across four cities and four industrial zones, is selectively deploying smart meters to specific customer segments. COO Anton Perdices explained how contestable customers (those who can buy directly from generators) require smart meters to access hourly data and meet regulatory requirements.

The utility has also deployed auto-reclosers and automatic load-break switches to enhance outage response. These devices can isolate faults within milliseconds and allow the system to reclose automatically, minimising downtime and reducing the need for manual fault tracing. Aboitiz is also targeting “lifeline” customers—low-income households—with a custom-built meter, which supports remote connection, disconnection, and anti-theft monitoring.

Meanwhile, Thailand’s PEA has rolled out over 300,000 smart meters, including in Pattaya City, and is now proposing a national plan to deploy one million more across medium- and low-voltage networks. Deputy Governor of Planning and Engineering, Pongsakorn Yuthagovit emphasised the need for smart meters to be part of a broader grid intelligence framework—including sensors on distribution transformers, real-time data analytics, and system-wide visibility tools.

PEA is developing capabilities to visualise and localise faults, balance loads across feeders, and optimise network efficiency through grid data integration. According to Yuthagovit, the ability to collect, process, and act on distribution-level data will be essential for integrating EV charging, rooftop solar, and energy storage at scale.

Grid Visibility, Outage Management, and Cost Challenges

All panellists highlighted the role of smart distribution in outage management. Smart meters and grid sensors can pinpoint fault locations, prioritise critical loads (like hospitals), and shorten response times. However, as Yuthagovit cautioned, the real value lies not just in data collection but in integrating that data with customer information systems and outage management tools to deliver actionable insights.

Cost remains a major concern. Smart meters are estimated to be three to five times more expensive than traditional meters. Utilities are working closely with regulators to justify the investment by demonstrating long-term benefits in efficiency, reliability, and customer experience.

“The business case must go beyond billing,” said Eugene Loke. “Smart meters support the entire energy transition—from distributed solar integration to flexible pricing models—and that’s where the value lies.”

Looking Ahead

Smart distribution is not a one-size-fits-all journey. It requires long-term planning, flexible technology choices, and stakeholder alignment. Whether it’s optimising grid performance, enabling clean energy, or empowering customers, the modern distribution network is no longer passive. It’s intelligent, responsive, and essential for Southeast Asia’s net zero ambition.

To explore more of these ideas and engage directly with the region’s energy leaders, join us at Enlit Asia 2025, returning to Bangkok from 9–11 September. Be part of the conversation shaping Southeast Asia’s smarter, greener energy future. Find out more by visiting the website here www.enlit-asia.com

Watch the full webinar: