New nuclear cooperation with US institutes marks Singapore’s next phase toward clean, resilient energy
Singapore is taking a decisive step in its long-term energy transition by deepening cooperation with leading US nuclear research institutions. The move underscores the Republic’s intent to explore safe, advanced nuclear options as part of its broader push toward low-carbon energy resilience.
Strengthening Nuclear Collaboration
At the opening of the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) on October 27, Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology Tan See Leng unveiled Singapore’s latest background paper on nuclear energy. The document, jointly developed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), Energy Market Authority (EMA), and National Environment Agency (NEA), provides an updated assessment of nuclear energy’s potential role in meeting Singapore’s “energy trilemma” — balancing clean, affordable, and secure energy.
Singapore also announced new partnerships with two major US research organisations: the Idaho National Laboratory and the Battelle Memorial Institute. Both agreements focus on research, capability building, and the development of advanced nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs) — compact reactors that can be safely deployed in land-scarce settings.
Advancing Nuclear Safety and Innovation
Dr Tan reaffirmed that Singapore’s nuclear exploration would strictly follow the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Milestones Approach, ensuring that any future decision aligns with global safety and security standards. He highlighted that SMRs, capable of generating up to 300 megawatts (MW), could provide a safer, more adaptable model for densely populated nations.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright noted that SMR trials are scheduled to begin in the US next year, describing them as “a reality that fits Singapore’s energy profile.” Wright also hinted at potential cooperation in nuclear fusion, a technology the US aims to commercialise within the next 8–15 years.
Exploring Complementary Low-Carbon Pathways
While nuclear energy offers long-term potential, Singapore continues to diversify its cleaner energy sources. Solar energy remains the country’s most viable renewable option, with targets of at least two gigawatt-peak (GWp) expected to be met earlier than 2030. However, solar is projected to supply only about 10 per cent of Singapore’s 2050 power demand due to land limitations.
To further decarbonise, Singapore will establish a biomethane regulatory sandbox of up to 300 MW to promote renewable gas production from organic waste. Biomethane can directly replace fossil natural gas using existing infrastructure, reducing carbon intensity without costly retrofits.
Improving Efficiency in Natural Gas Systems
Natural gas, which currently powers 95 per cent of Singapore’s electricity, will continue to underpin system reliability during the transition. EMA has launched a S$44 million (US$33.9 million) incentive scheme to support the deployment of Advanced Combined Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGTs) by Keppel Infrastructure and Sembcorp Industries. These new plants are expected to reduce carbon emissions by 200,000 tonnes annually, equivalent to removing 80,000 households’ worth of emissions each year.
Jurong Island: Testbed for a Low-Carbon Future
Jurong Island — Singapore’s 3,000-hectare energy and chemicals hub — is being reimagined as a testbed for green innovation. As part of this transformation, 20 hectares will host Singapore’s largest low-carbon data centre park, designed with stringent efficiency standards and advanced cooling systems. The park, with up to 700 MW of potential capacity, marks the end of Singapore’s moratorium on new data centres imposed in 2019 due to environmental concerns.
The government’s 2030 vision for Jurong Island also includes boosting the output of sustainable products by 1.5 times from 2019 levels, with progress already reaching 1.4 times. The island will serve as a hub for testing new energy technologies through the S$62.5 million A*STAR testbed facility, supporting startups and multinational companies in scaling low-carbon innovations.
Regional and Global Energy Cooperation
Beyond domestic strategies, Singapore is expanding its regional energy connections. Conditional approvals have been granted for the import of about 8 GW of green electricity, including 1 GW of hydropower from Sarawak by 2035 and potential 2 GW from Malaysia. These efforts align with ASEAN’s vision of a cross-border renewable energy grid to harness the region’s vast 20-terawatt solar and wind potential.
Singapore’s renewed focus on nuclear energy and low-carbon innovation reflects a pragmatic yet ambitious energy strategy — one that blends technology, resilience, and international cooperation. As the Republic strengthens ties with the US and explores regional renewable integration, both Singaporeans and Indonesians stand to benefit from a more stable, sustainable, and interconnected energy future across the region.
Sources: CNA (2025) , Eco-Business (2025)
Keywords: Singapore Nuclear, US Cooperation, Energy Security, Small Modular Reactors, Low Carbon, Biomethane
