Overview
Geographic limitations pose threat to sustainable energy solutions; Singapore reliant on renewable energy imports
Facing a large number of geographic limitations, Singapore’s shift towards renewable energy sources has been carried out at a slower pace. The city faces many obstacles such as the lack of space required for large solar installations, no major rivers to generate hydro electricity and an average wind speed of 2m/s that prevents the use of commercial wind turbines operating at speeds of 4.5m/s or more. Tidal power generation has also decreased due to a large segment of the sea being used for ports, anchorage and shipping lanes.
As of 2022, 95% of Singapore’s electricity is generated using natural gas, whilst 3% is generated by solar power and other energy sources, 1% from coal and 1% from oil products. Due to its large list of limitations, the city has resorted to importing renewable energy in order to transition away from the use of fossil fuels.
Working towards improving the energy sector in Singapore, the country aims to focus solely on natural gas, solar, regional power grids and low-carbon alternatives, and seeks to introduce sustainable solutions within the city. Small-scale nuclear solutions have also been developed in order to tackle low-carbon-powered options, but this too has brought about challenges caused by atomic waste disposal and technology restrictions. Regional power grids are being sought in order to access energy that is cost-competitive, and is in development through bilateral cooperation and regional initiatives.
Key Trends
Slow progress in the sector despite COVID-19 limitations; Singapore reaches solar energy targets
In 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak posed a huge threat to the renewable energy sector and a large number of projects within it that were in the procurement stage. Access to critical components and their deliveries were postponed and pushed back due to priority given towards tackling the widespread coronavirus. Yet, the sector still managed to pull through despite facing several setbacks.
In March 2020, a memorandum of understanding was signed by five Singaporean companies and two Japanese companies in an initiative to utilise hydrogen as a low-carbon energy source. The collaboration is to be enacted with the assistance of the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) of Singapore.
Despite the disruption caused by the pandemic, Singapore was still able to achieve its 2020 solar deployment target during the first quarter of the same year and the deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels was also enabled in 2020. Another project that was initiated in 2020 was the development of clean energy-powered service stations that was also carried out despite restrictions imposed due to COVID-19. Led by Eigen Energy, a grant was provided by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) and Shell to pilot a smart energy-managed service stations project, to be ready by 2022.
Clean energy projects introduced to address Singapore’s increasing energy demands; Jurong Island working towards sustainable energy solutions by 2030
In 2022, Jurong Island in Singapore initiated a diverse range of projects in line with the Singapore Green Plan 2030. One such project included the introduction of floating solar panel systems to be introduced in rough sea conditions and withstanding stronger waves.
Conventional solar panel systems are utilised in reservoirs and calmer water bodies. This new system attaches solar panels onto circular reinforced membranes that are coated in a high density and are made up of a polyethylene pipe structure. Its coating ensures safety and support for the solar platform, and was designed by Norwegian company Ocean Sun.
Having been awarded an SGD 6 million grant for testing of clean energy solutions, the initiatives act as a means to achieve net-zero in energy consumption and seek to commercially introduce such solar platforms within the city of Singapore. Other clean energy solutions being introduced are:
Virtual ledger - a system implemented to support green hydrogen production, which can be powered by offsite solar energy generation.
Deployment of energy storage systems - using electrolytes within existing infrastructure to enhance circularity on Jurong island.
Furthermore, the authorities dealing with renewable energy are also seeking to alternate between low-carbon alternatives, such as hydrogen, as a means of reducing carbon emissions.
Increased solar irradiation to assist with renewable energy solutions; research and development of solar PV systems to be implemented
A promising energy source in Singapore has been solar energy, which was focused on in 2020, when Singapore achieved its target of 350 megawatt-peak (MWp) during the first quarter of 2020. The country is working towards a larger target of 2 gigawatt-peak (GWp) by 2030 as well as an energy storage deployment target of 200 MW after 2025.
Generating a high annual solar irradiation of 1,580 kWh/m2 makes solar PV an important method of producing solar energy. By investing in research and development in solar PV systems, the country aims to integrate innovative solar energy solutions within an urban environment. A few test bedding projects include:
Installation of solar panels on rooftops on highrise buildings and within public housing development schemes by the Housing and Development Board (HDB)
Introduction of floating PV projects as a pilot solar panel installation initially at reservoirs by the Economic Development Board (EDB)
In March 2021, Singapore saw the installation of 4,585 grid-connected solar PV systems with a total capacity of 443 MWp. Other technologies are also being deployed, such as mobile solar PV systems that can be used temporarily on vacant land and building-integrated PV systems that are built into building facades.
The solar landscape has faced hurdles with regards to generation of electricity at night. Batteries are generally used to store solar-generated electricity in order to deploy electricity at night and this led to Singapore developing its first utility-scale energy storage system in October 2020 in order to address the increasing need for energy storage solutions. The storage system allows for 200 four-room HDB units to be powered within a 24-hour period.
Key Statistics
- In 2020, a report published by the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore estimated that the city has the means to deploy 8.6 GWp of solar energy and cater to 10% of Singapore’s projected electricity demand.
- Between the period of 2022-2027, the Singapore renewable energy market is set to register more than a 3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), as per statistics published in 2021.
- As at December 2020, grid-connected solar PV capacity was noted at 432.2 MWp.
- In 2020, total energy consumption per capita was 5.8 toe, which included 8,900 kWh of electricity.
Top Singapore MNCs in Renewable Energy
GE POWER (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.
GE Renewable Energy is the wind turbine manufacturing division of General Electric, USA. The firm is focused on the production of energy from renewable sources – wind, hydroelectric, and solar power-generating solutions are all part of its portfolio of products. A leading participant in the energy sector, GE Renewable Energy has the largest portfolio in the renewable energy sector and is well-positioned to support the global transition to a cleaner, greener, energy future. In 1999, GE Power (Singapore) was established as a key regional hub for GE’s energy and power operations in the Asia-Pacific. It serves as a base for GE’s work with local companies on projects across the ASEAN region.
SHELL EASTERN PETROLEUM (PTE) LTD
Repeated as per client
BP SINGAPORE PTE. LIMITED
Repeated as per client
VESTAS ASIA PACIFIC WIND TECHNOLOGY PTE. LTD.
Repeated as per client
ADANI GLOBAL PTE. LTD.
Founded in 2000 in Singapore, Adani Global, the regional headquarters of the Adani Group focuses on renewable energy, technology, and infrastructure projects in Southeast Asia. One of India's largest diversified conglomerates, the Adani Group consists of seven publicly traded companies, with a portfolio that ranges from advanced technology to the generation and transmission of renewable energy. Adani Global develops, builds, owns, operates, and maintains utility-scale grid-connected solar and wind projects. Moreover, the firm has expertise in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Manufacturing, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction.
EQUINOR ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LTD.
Equinor is an international company that converts natural resources into energy. Renewable energy, low-carbon technologies, and oil and gas make up Equinor's product portfolio. The firm is headquartered in Norway and has a presence in around 30 countries across the globe. Equinor Asia Pacific, which was incorporated in Singapore in 1991, is the regional hub for Equinor's downstream activities and trading of crude oil and natural gas liquids. Equinor Asia Pacific’s product portfolio also includes low-carbon solutions and renewables. In collaboration with leading energy trading house Danske Commodities, the regional hub helps to expand Equinor’s trading activities throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
TOTALENERGIES MARKETING ASIA-PACIFIC MIDDLE EAST PTE. LTD.
Repeated as per client
TESLA MOTORS SINGAPORE PRIVATE LIMITED
Tesla, based in the United States, is a multinational automotive and renewable energy company. Its subsidiary, Tesla Energy, develops and installs photovoltaic systems across the United States. The company designs and manufactures solar panels, solar inverters, solar roof tiles, electric vehicles, battery energy storage solutions, and other related products and services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Tesla Motors Singapore was incorporated in 2010. Today, the firm operates a destination charging network of three superchargers and five supercharger stations in Singapore for Tesla Model S, Model Y, Model X, and Model 3 owners.
SIEMENS GAMESA RENEWABLE ENERGY PTY LTD BRANCH OFFICE SINGAPORE
Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy is a wind power solutions company headquartered in Spain. The firm specializes in the development, manufacture, installation, and maintenance of wind turbines. From the largest cities to any remote area, Siemens Gamesa supplies clean energy to power homes, schools, hospitals, and more. The firm has a presence in more than 90 countries, and offers an extensive range of onshore and offshore wind turbine technologies, in addition to service solutions. Siemens Gamesa has a branch office in Singapore which was founded in 2016. The Singaporean branch has installed over 107 GW in 75 countries across the globe.
ORSTED SINGAPORE PTE. LTD.
Orsted is a renewable energy company with headquarters in Denmark. The firm has expertise in the development, construction, and operation of renewable hydrogen and green fuels facilities, offshore and onshore wind farms, solar farms, energy storage facilities, and bioenergy plants in Europe, Asia, and North America. Orsted is recognized as a global leader in climate action and was the first energy company in the world to have its science-based net zero emissions target validated by the Science Based Targets initiative. Orsted Singapore was founded in 2019 to bring forward the expertise, technology, and know-how of its parent firm, and assist more markets in Asia-Pacific to achieve their goals in green transformation.
Top Singapore Large Local Enterprises in Renewable Energy
SEMBCORP INDUSTRIES LTD
Repeated as per client
SINGAPORE POWER LIMITED
Repeated as per client
SENOKO ENERGY PTE. LTD.
Repeated as per client
SUNSEAP GROUP PTE. LTD.
Incorporated in 2015, EDPR APAC – formerly known as Sunseap Group – is a Singapore-based renewable energy solutions provider, specializing in solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, offsite clean energy supply, energy efficiency solutions, and more. With the scarcity of land in Singapore, EDPR APAC focuses on alternative and creative ways to deploy new solar projects. Floating solar systems, which are deployed on water bodies such as reservoirs or lakes, have the potential to generate more solar energy in comparison to traditional rooftop and ground-mounted solar systems. The firm has won several accolades including the Singapore Prestige Brand Award 2019, in addition to achieving the bizSAFE STAR and ISO certifications.
VENA ENERGY PTE. LTD.
Vena Energy, which was established in 2015, is a renewable energy company in the Asia-Pacific region. Headquartered in Singapore, it has expanded its presence across the globe to include Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, South Korea, and Thailand. The company’s portfolio comprises projects for energy storage as well as its core businesses of solar, onshore wind, and their corresponding extensions. Vena Energy was awarded the Battery Storage Deal of the Year Award for its 100 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) near Wandoan, Australia. It was also conferred the Renewable Energy Deal of the Year Award for its 70 MW Mingus Solar Project in Taiwan in 2021.
KEPPEL RENEWABLE ENERGY PTE. LTD.
Keppel Renewable Energy (KRE) was incorporated in Singapore in 2019. It is a firm that develops and operates renewable energy infrastructure. In addition to combining cutting-edge technology, energy storage systems, and digital platforms for effective asset management, KRE focuses on the development of utility-scale wind and solar projects. In 2020, the company received a contract from a US energy company for the engineering, purchasing, and construction of a Wind Turbine Installation Vessel as part of its efforts in pivoting to provide solutions in renewable energy. During the same year, KRE signed an agreement to develop a large-scale, greenfield solar farm in Australia, which is its first solar farm project.
SINENERGY PTE. LTD.
Sinenergy was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Singapore. It uses renewable energy to create usable sources of power. The firm also operates as an independent solar power producer across Asia, offering rooftop, ground-mounted, and on-grid systems for commercial buildings and solar panels for homes. Being one of Singapore's leading renewable energy providers, Sinenergy serves clients in the residential, commercial, and utilities sectors. The firm provides various services, including feasibility analyses, designing systems, financing arrangements, procuring equipment, and the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of solar power plants.
Top Singapore SMEs in Renewable Energy
SINDICATUM RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANY PTE. LIMITED
Incorporated in Singapore in 2009, Sindicatum Renewable Energy Company is an independent power producer that owns, develops, and operates clean energy projects across the globe. From its facilities, the company sells renewable energy and sustainable commodities to utility and commercial clients who typically buy power from Sindicatum under long-term power purchase or supply agreements. These commodities include biofuels, goods made from natural resources and agricultural waste, and environmental products. Over the years, Sindicatum has received several awards, including the Global Business Excellence Award for Outstanding Green Initiative in 2015.
CLEANTECH SOLAR DEVELOPMENT COMPANY PTE. LTD.
Incorporated in 2018, Cleantech Solar Development Company is a solar developer that owns, finances, constructs, and operates solar projects. The firm is headquartered in Singapore, with operations established across India and Southeast Asia, focusing on long-term investments within the commercial and industrial customer segments. Cleantech Solar Development Company focuses on installing high-quality rooftop photovoltaic projects, with experienced engineering and project teams who have worked on different types of structures, including ground mounts, all varieties of metal roofing, and reinforced concrete. The company is ISO 45001 and bizSAFE STAR certified.
REZECA RENEWABLES PTE. LTD.
Repeated as per client
SUNPRO ENERGIES PTE. LTD.
SunPro Energies was established in Singapore in 2014. The company designs and installs effective solar photovoltaic systems that are both grid-tied and off-grid, as well as solar panels. Each solar power system is customized to meet the client’s individual needs, for their residential, government, school, commercial, or industrial projects. The company’s work was recognized when it received the bizSAFE STAR certification. Additionally, SunPro Energies has been featured on various news platforms in recognition of its solar energy systems. One such project that gained recognition was the firm’s work at the Dormer Park Apartments, which was featured on Channel 8 News.
DAILY LIFE RENEWABLE ENERGY PTE. LTD.
Daily Life Renewable Energy (DLRE) was founded in 2006. This Singapore-owned firm designs, sources finance for, and implements renewable energy systems in both the commercial and government sectors. One of DLRE's offerings is Telecommunications Power Solutions, which offer optimal utilization of renewable energy sources, efficient power generation methods, and a reasonable Return on Assets (ROA). The firm has also delivered multiple micro-grid projects with tested installations in South East Asia and South Asia. DLRE combines cutting-edge wind turbines, solar modules, a creative variable speed diesel/bio-diesel engine, modern power electronics, and control technologies to electrify remote regions throughout the world.
EIGEN ENERGY PTE. LTD.
Founded in 2015, Eigen Energy is a solar solutions provider headquartered in Singapore. The company provides both individual clients and businesses with a wide array of services. These services are highly customizable and cover the design, supply, installation, and maintenance of products such as solar power systems that include solar panels, solar inverters, mounting structures, and other related components. In addition to residential and commercial installations, Eigen Energy also provides vehicle electrification solutions including charging point installations, electric vehicle charging, and more.
PMCE (GLOBAL) PTE. LTD.
PMCE (Global) is a Singapore-owned and operated solar panel company which was established in 2016. The firm supplies and installs rooftop solar panel systems on residential and commercial buildings. Commencing operations as a distributor of solar panels and inverters, today PMCE (Global) has developed an extensive network in the solar sector. The firm has expertise in residential solar systems, having completed more than 150 installations in Singapore. PMCE also provides operations and maintenance services for several years following a solar installation. Additionally, the company provides a Defects Liability Period on solar installations.
ENERGETIX PTE. LTD.
Energetix, which was established in Singapore in 2015, is a company that specializes in renewable energy installations. The firm develops, designs, engineers, and constructs solar photovoltaic projects across Singapore and Southeast Asia for the industrial, residential, and commercial sectors. Energetix works with a diverse range of clients to install rooftop systems and utility-scale power plants. Moreover, the company provides monitoring and maintenance solutions for its solar photovoltaic systems. Energetix customizes each task it accepts to meet the unique needs of clients and their properties.
T.S. RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS PTE. LTD.
Founded in 2018, T.S. Renewable Energy Solutions (TS Energy) is a Singapore-headquartered firm that provides renewable biomass and solar energy solutions in Southeast Asia. The company has successfully developed and integrated biomass co-generation power plants in Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia for diverse industrial applications. By adding solar energy and waste-to-energy solutions to its portfolio, TS Energy has set a path to providing a wider choice for its customers to generate clean renewable energy. The firm delivers a diverse range of services from end to end, covering power plant development to integration and up to completion.
SENE PTE. LTD.
Incorporated in 2017, Sene provides renewable energy solutions to the residential and commercial sectors in Singapore and other countries in Southeast Asia. The company offers total turnkey energy solutions for five different photovoltaic systems: grid-connected, off-grid solar PV systems, diesel PV hybrid systems, energy storage systems, and building integrated PV systems. Sene offers its customers a complete service so they can easily purchase a solar PV installation and receive ongoing support for maintaining the system. The firm is ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 14001, and bizSAFE STAR certified.