Singapore’s Decarbonization Strategy
Singapore aims to import up to four gigawatts (GW) of low-carbon electricity by 2035, constituting approximately 30% of its electricity supply. This move aligns with Singapore’s commitment to decarbonize its power sector and enhance energy security.
Initiatives by the Energy Market Authority (EMA)
The Energy Market Authority (EMA) plans to issue two requests for proposal to import low-carbon electricity. These requests aim to specify requirements, ensuring that imported electricity originates from low-carbon sources. EMA emphasizes that proposals from coal-fired generation sources will not be accepted.
The first request, launching next month, targets importing 1.2GW of electricity by 2027. The second request, scheduled for the second quarter of 2022, will cover the remaining imports up to 2035. These initiatives support regional decarbonization efforts and diversify Singapore’s energy sources.
Ministerial Insights and Challenges
Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong underscores the significance of importing low-carbon energy in Singapore’s energy transition. Despite efforts to enhance energy efficiency and harness solar energy, he acknowledges the necessity of tapping into low-carbon energy sources beyond Singapore’s borders.
While renewable energy adoption may lower generation costs, additional expenses for transmission, backup, and grid enhancements are inevitable. Minister Gan stresses the importance of balancing costs with the imperative of transitioning to low-carbon alternatives.
Trials and Collaborations
EMA has been collaborating with partners to prepare for electricity imports through trials and pilot programs. YTL PowerSeraya will conduct a two-year trial to import 100MW of electricity from Peninsular Malaysia, commencing in early 2023.
Additionally, a pilot program aims to import 100MW equivalent of non-intermittent electricity from a solar farm in Pulau Bulan, Indonesia, by 2024. Furthermore, Singapore is working on importing up to 100MW of power from Laos via Thailand and Malaysia, contributing to the broader ASEAN Power Grid vision.
Singapore’s ambitious endeavors in importing low-carbon electricity demonstrate its commitment to sustainable energy transition and regional collaboration in achieving carbon neutrality.
Source：channelnewsasia.com
