Singapore Strengthens Power Grid to Support Clean Energy Transition

As part of its journey towards net-zero emissions by 2050, Singapore is accelerating efforts to enhance the resilience and flexibility of its national power grid. The city-state faces the dual challenge of meeting growing electricity demand while reducing carbon emissions, with natural gas still accounting for around 95% of its power supply.

The Energy Market Authority (EMA) emphasized that Singapore is pursuing a diversified and pragmatic energy strategy. “We must balance cost-effectiveness, manageability, and energy security,” said Violet Chen, Director of Energy Capability Development at EMA. Land scarcity and limited renewable energy options are key constraints for the island nation.

To address these limitations, Singapore is investing in solar energy, aiming to achieve 2 GWp of solar capacity by 2030. Having already reached 1.5 GWp, Singapore is now among the world’s most solar-dense cities. Despite this progress, solar power is expected to meet only about 10% of total electricity needs due to space constraints.

To supplement domestic generation, the government plans to import up to 6 GW of low-carbon electricity from regional partners by 2035. This initiative is part of a broader push to foster cross-border electricity trading in Southeast Asia.

Singapore is also exploring future-ready technologies such as hydrogen, advanced nuclear, and carbon capture. While these technologies develop, natural gas will continue to play a stabilizing role in the energy mix.

To further support grid flexibility, the EMA is rolling out energy storage systems and demand response programs. Battery energy storage systems can rapidly charge and discharge, helping balance electricity supply and demand. Additionally, demand response initiatives will allow consumers to reduce energy use during peak periods in exchange for financial incentives.

The government is working closely with the private sector to drive innovation and co-develop regulatory frameworks that support emerging energy solutions. “We are eager to partner with businesses to co-create practical, scalable solutions for our energy future,” Chen added.