On October 27, Singapore unveiled a background paper aimed at enhancing its understanding of nuclear energy. This document outlines the nation”s exploration of nuclear power as a potential solution to meet its energy demands while educating the public on its associated benefits and risks. During the opening of the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW), Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology Tan See Leng highlighted the public”s curiosity regarding the country”s nuclear plans.
“We are also seriously studying the potential deployment of nuclear energy, especially newer technologies such as small modular reactors,” Dr. Tan stated during the Singapore Energy Lecture at the Marina Bay Sands” Expo and Convention Centre. He emphasized that nuclear energy could serve as a safe, reliable, and cost-effective option for the nation.
The SIEW, now in its 18th iteration and running until Friday, serves as a forum for energy professionals and policymakers to exchange best practices and solutions in the global energy sector. It is organized by Singapore”s Energy Market Authority (EMA), which operates under the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Considerations for Nuclear Energy
Although Singapore has not yet made a definitive decision regarding the deployment of nuclear energy, the government is actively studying its prospects. A pre-feasibility study conducted in 2012 determined that nuclear power plants were unsuitable for Singapore due to the country”s small size and high population density. The newly released 16-page background paper presents Singapore”s considerations for nuclear energy, taking into account recent technological advancements, the current global energy landscape, and nuclear safety protocols.
The paper, developed collaboratively by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, EMA, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, and the National Environment Agency, states that nuclear energy could help Singapore tackle the energy trilemma—balancing the need for clean, affordable, and secure energy. Singapore is aligning its capabilities with the International Atomic Energy Agency”s “Milestones Approach,” which guides countries in understanding the requirements for deploying nuclear energy.
The background paper notes that nuclear power generation does not emit greenhouse gases and could be cost-competitive with other energy sources such as natural gas and solar power. Furthermore, as a domestic energy source, nuclear could enhance resilience against global market disruptions. Currently, there are over 400 operational nuclear power plants worldwide, supplying approximately 10 percent of global electricity. Recent advances in nuclear technology, particularly in small modular reactors (SMRs), have made nuclear energy a more viable option, with many designs moving from concept to implementation.
Any future decision by Singapore regarding nuclear energy will consider safety, reliability, affordability, and environmental sustainability in the local context. The government pledged to build domestic capabilities in collaboration with international partners and engage the public regularly to foster understanding of the benefits and risks associated with nuclear energy.
Agreements with US Organizations
To bolster its expertise in nuclear energy, the EMA will sign new cooperation agreements with two US institutions: the Idaho National Laboratory and the Battelle Memorial Institute, as announced by Dr. Tan. The Idaho National Laboratory is the United States” leading nuclear energy laboratory focused on advancing nuclear innovations, while Battelle is a non-profit organization that applies advanced sciences and technology to address complex challenges, including those in nuclear energy.
These agreements build on previous collaborations between Singapore and the US, including a civil nuclear cooperation agreement signed in July last year, which facilitates access to information and technology. In January, both nations also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance strategic civil nuclear cooperation.
Singapore”s Energy Transition Amid Global Uncertainty
In his address, Dr. Tan acknowledged the challenges posed by geopolitical instability, which has prompted nations to reevaluate their climate goals, often prioritizing economic resilience over decarbonization efforts. He stated, “Yet, we all know nature will wait for no man. Climate change continues to accelerate, and its impact will profoundly affect how we work, how we live, and how we thrive.”
Singapore remains committed to pursuing its decarbonization objectives with urgency and determination. One key pathway is solar energy, which Dr. Tan identified as the most viable renewable option for the country, despite its limitations due to land constraints. The government is encouraging the installation of solar panels across businesses and homes while exploring innovative urban applications. However, solar energy is expected to meet only a maximum of 10 percent of Singapore”s projected electricity demand by 2050.
To diversify its energy mix, Singapore is also investigating biomethane as a low-carbon fuel alternative. Dr. Tan announced plans to establish a regulatory sandbox of up to 300 megawatts to promote supply chain development and foster adoption among industry stakeholders. Biomethane, produced by upgrading biogas from organic waste, can seamlessly integrate into Singapore”s existing natural gas infrastructure.
As the country explores new fuel sources, natural gas will continue to play a crucial role in maintaining reliability. Dr. Tan highlighted the importance of maximizing the efficiency of natural gas generation systems and announced an incentive scheme to support the adoption of advanced natural gas power plants. The EMA is allocating significant funding to promote the deployment of advanced combined cycle gas turbines, which are expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions.
Additionally, Singapore plans to transform its industrial sectors to aid in decarbonization efforts. The government is refreshing its approach to Jurong Island, Singapore”s energy and chemicals hub, which is already home to numerous global companies. The island is set to serve as a testbed for new low-carbon technologies, and plans for a significant low-carbon data center park are also underway.
