Singapore aims to significantly boost its renewable electricity import capacity to 8.1 GW by 2035 to meet the International Energy Agency’s net-zero power sector target. This ambitious move will help reduce emissions and enhance regional cooperation.
Dinita Setyawati, Senior Electricity Policy Analyst at Ember South East Asia, highlighted Singapore’s progress: “Singapore is already on track to reach net zero by 2050. However, by increasing the renewable import capacity from 4.2 GW to 8.1 GW by 2035, and eventually to 16 GW by 2045, we believe Singapore can achieve a net-zero power sector five years earlier than planned.”
To support this goal, Singapore has opened bidding opportunities for renewable energy imports, aiming to establish connections to regional grids. Setyawati noted, “Doubling renewable energy imports is crucial for Singapore. This initiative could position Singapore as a tipping point for grid development and renewable energy progress in Southeast Asia.”
Increasing renewable energy imports promises significant environmental benefits. “Singapore’s per capita power sector emissions are nearly five times the ASEAN average. If Singapore achieves net zero emissions by 2045, it could reduce power sector emissions by more than half,” Setyawati explained, based on Ember’s calculations.
Despite the benefits, incorporating more renewables into Singapore’s energy mix poses challenges. “Securing a supply of renewables through regional power grids is essential for creating safe, secure, and decarbonized power systems. Thus, regional cooperation in grid infrastructure and renewable energy projects is vital,” Setyawati emphasized.
Investment is a key factor in this transition. “Funding can come from public, private, or a combination of both sources to create a larger pool for renewable energy investment in the region,” Setyawati said. Adequate funding and cross-border cooperation are critical for Singapore to meet its ambitious renewable energy targets.
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