Singapore is a small country in terms of size and resources for generating energy. For instance, Singapore lacks fast-flowing rivers to harness hydroelectric power. Similarly, Singapore has wind speeds of about 2m/s, which is below the 4.5m/s required to operate commercial wind turbines. The country’s limited renewable energy options have forced Singapore to import almost all its energy needs.
However, despite its small size and high cloud cover in many areas, Singapore has a high average annual solar irradiation, standing at approximately 1,580 kWh/m2. This makes solar a potential option for Singapore.
We are continuously hearing statements from people that Singapore should invest consistently in sustainable development. It should because this is the sole way to ensure dynamic growth and create an environment that is livable in the future. Although these statements are true, the expert team at “Visa Express” – Singapore visa consultant agency conducted research to gain more insights about the subject matter. The following article is the result of that research. It is being written here to share the results of the study that was completed. Let’s see how green energy will benefit Singapore.
Rationale for Sustainable Energy
Singapore has emerged as a hub of sustainable development ahead of all other countries, and the results are enormous. The people have reaped the benefits and the country’s economy is the most competitive in the whole continent. Besides the economy, Singapore has been ranked #1 livable environment in Asia.
But, if we want to continue reaping these benefits, we shouldn’t stop here. The global climatic changes, coupled with the depletion of fossil fuels makes it essential to find sustainable energy alternatives to make Singapore a truly sustainable country.
Forward Thinking
When several countries are in the way of exploring alternatives, Singapore cannot take more diversified paths as it has limited potential of wind, hydro and geothermal energies. Singapore’s most promising renewable energy resource is solar power. How could this source benefit us?
Sun is the energy resource that produces zero harmful emissions; hence, solar energy contributes a lot to the sustainability of our environment. The next key benefit is that it doesn’t require any fuel imports, as is required for oil and/or gas; it makes our country secure in terms of energy.
Finally, solar energy could eliminate the demand during peak hours. Why I say this is because the peak usage of energy in Singapore is observed in the afternoons. Here, it clashes with the periods of greatest sunlight exposure in Singapore. By reducing the demand, we can also decrease the electricity pool costs; thereby, benefitting the people.
Singapore’s 2030 green plan aims to generate a minimum of 2GWp to meet 3% of the country’s projected electricity demand. This number can comfortably cover the electricity needs of 350,000 households annually. Singapore also employs best-in-class advanced electricity generation technology capable of meeting emission standards while reducing carbon emissions.
In addition, Singapore is also exploring other renewable energy options, including nuclear energy, regional power grids, and emerging technologies such as carbon capture. Singapore is also keenly following the latest development in geothermal technology, which has the potential to harness underground heat for power generation.
The Promise of Solar Power
The median annual solar radiation that is being received by Singapore will be equal to 1500 kWh/m2 of possible energy. A major challenge that is being faced is the lack of land for the deployment of solar panels. Also, the cost of generation is about two times that of electricity from fuels. So, the smart approach that can be taken is to invest in research and test beds, so as to prepare for a broader deployment.
In this regard, the HDB has embarked $30 million for testing this technology on the roofs of public housing. Following this, the country’s research foundation has also invested $170 million for setting up manpower and R&D in solar energy. Besides benefitting the environment, these projects are promises to create almost seven thousand new jobs in the future making the growth sustained.
Finally, Singapore has set targets to improve energy efficiency. For instance, constructing best-in-class green buildings aims to improve energy efficiency by 80% before 2030. They are also looking at reducing desalination energy to 1kWh/m3 Over the same period.
Also Read: Reaffirming Singapore Net Zero Commitment with Transition Finance
Salman is a prolific environmental writer, and has authored more than 500 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. He is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management, sustainability and conservation all over the world.
Salman can be reached on salman@cleantechloops.com
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