A plug release system for cementing a tubular string into a wellbore includes: a wiper plug; a tubular housing; a latch for releasably connecting the wiper plug to the housing. The latch includes: a fastener engageable with one of the wiper plug and the housing; a lock movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the lock keeping the fastener engaged in the locked position; and an actuator connected to the lock and operable to at least move the lock from the locked position to the unlocked position. The plug release system further includes an electronics package disposed in the housing and in communication with the actuator for operating the actuator in response to receiving a command signal.