Written reply to PQ on Update on Singapore’s plans for Singapore's low-carbon electricity import and net-zero emissions goal following recent report by Wood Mackenzie

Question:

Mr Ng Shi Xuan: To ask the Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) in light of the recent report by Wood MacKenzie on the outlook of Singapore's low-carbon electricity import pipeline (a) whether the Ministry can provide an update on the Government's plans to import low-carbon electricity; and (b) whether there are any changes to our net-zero emissions goal.

Written Answer by Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Dr Tan See Leng

1.     To date, the Energy Market Authority (EMA) has granted Conditional Approvals and Conditional Licenses to potential projects from Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam, for the import of low-carbon electricity into Singapore. We do not expect all these projects to materialise. Projects need to obtain regulatory approvals from all relevant jurisdictions, secure financing and be commercially viable.

2.     The Government is working with source country governments to clarify their regulatory requirements. EMA is also making available the necessary infrastructure and market frameworks to support potential projects. We have upgraded and doubled the capacity of the existing cross-border interconnector with Malaysia in 2022, and have earmarked a landing site on Jurong Island to import electricity.

3.     Singapore remains committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 through a range of decarbonisation pathways, including the import of low-carbon electricity where it is feasible. As an alternative-energy disadvantaged country, our overall pace of decarbonisation will rely heavily on international cooperation and developments in renewable energy and other mitigation technologies.