Singapore seeks 'renewable fuel', nuclear ties

Singapore must be ready to support all promising pathways, from established technologies to novel options, in its bid to transition its fossil fuel-based energy sector to one that is clean yet affordable, said Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng on Monday.

To achieve this, the country will be exploring the use of biomethane, touted as “renewable fuel”, to reduce emissions from its power sector, and learning more about nuclear energy from the best minds in the field by inking new partnerships, he said at the opening of the Singapore International Energy Week, an annual energy conference.

Singapore is already moving to tap as much solar power as it can domestically, and is also working with neighbours to see if renewable energy projects abroad can supply electricity for the country, Tan said.

But since Singapore is alternative-energy disadvantaged, it also has to study emerging technologies such as nuclear and carbon capture, if it is to find the “right balance” between climate concerns, energy security and cost-competitiveness, he added.

Currently, Singapore relies on natural gas, a type of fossil fuel, for 95% of its electricity generation. Its power sector contributes 40% of national emissions as the burning of natural gas releases planet-warming emissions.

The country had previously said it expected natural gas to continue to meet more than 50% of its energy needs by 2035, as it could take time for the other energy options being explored to become viable.