Situated just one degree north of the equator, Singapore is well-positioned to harness abundant sunshine, making solar energy a promising domestic renewable source. However, the intermittent nature of solar power, particularly during cloudy and rainy periods, poses challenges to grid stability. To address this, Singapore is turning to Energy Storage Systems (ESS).
Jason Chua, a Senior Engineer at the Energy Market Authority (EMA), likens ESS to a large-scale version of the portable power banks used for mobile devices. Chua explains, “An ESS supports Singapore’s power grid by storing energy during low demand and discharging it when demand peaks.”
ESS plays a vital role in maintaining grid stability amid increasing energy demand and the integration of cleaner sources like solar. It swiftly balances electricity demand and supply, offering backup energy to ensure reliability.
In response to the 2022 global energy crunch impacting fuel supplies, Singapore, heavily reliant on imported natural gas, emphasized the importance of a resilient power supply. The collaboration between EMA, Sembcorp Industries, and other agencies led to the creation of the Sembcorp Energy Storage System, Southeast Asia’s largest ESS. With a storage capacity of 285 megawatt-hours (MWh), it can meet the daily electricity needs of around 24,000 households for a day in a single discharge.
This rapid implementation, completed in just six months, highlights the effectiveness of industry partnerships. Besides land-based ESS, Singapore explores innovative applications, such as a floating and stacked ESS on Seatrium’s Floating Living Lab, offering insights for overcoming land constraints.
Another collaboration with Shell Singapore involves piloting smart and clean energy-powered service stations for electric vehicles (EVs). The ESS, integrated with Shell’s energy management system, enables high-powered EV charging while storing solar-generated electricity for clean EV charging.
Keeping pace with global developments, EMA launched its second Energy Storage Grant Call to invite companies to develop and test-bed innovative ESS solutions. Jason Chua emphasizes the industry’s role in addressing climate change and expresses enthusiasm about contributing to meaningful change through energy innovation and partnerships.