Electricity in Singapore in 2023/2024

As of the most recent data from September 2023 to August 2024, electricity generation in Singapore is predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, with gas alone providing almost 96% of the total electricity. Fossil energy accounts for more than 97% of the electricity consumed in the country, leaving a very small portion, specifically slightly over 2%, to low-carbon energy sources. Remarkably, this low-carbon percentage is entirely contributed by solar energy. The overwhelming dependence on fossil fuels highlights a significant area for improvement, particularly considering the global push towards greener energy to combat climate change and reduce air pollution.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Singapore can draw lessons from successful countries, especially those that have managed to integrate substantial nuclear or wind energy into their electricity mix. For countries with limited land area like Singapore, nuclear energy stands out as a dense and efficient clean energy solution. France and Slovakia serve as exemplary models, generating 68% and 60% of their electricity from nuclear energy respectively. Denmark, with its significant leveraging of wind energy, generating 59% of its electricity from wind, also presents a successful blueprint. By investing in advanced nuclear technology and exploring offshore wind farms, Singapore can diversify its electricity generation portfolio, making significant strides toward a sustainable and greener future.

History

In examining the history of low-carbon electricity in Singapore, the trajectory has been relatively modest. From 1986 onward, there were gradual but limited increases in biofuels until a notable spike in 2019, followed by slight fluctuations. Recent years have shown more consistent growth in solar energy, with incremental increases observed since 2016. The past few decades indicate a cautiously positive trend in solar energy, reflecting an ongoing, albeit slow, commitment to diversifying Singapore's electricity sources. Encouraging policy development and substantial investment in low-carbon technologies could accelerate this trajectory, helping the nation reduce its heavy reliance on fossil fuels.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources