Ammonia Combustion to Contribute to Singapore’s Net-Zero by 2050 Goal
The Singapore government is taking significant steps toward clean ammonia power generation with the launch of a request for proposals (RFP) to develop and operate ammonia combustion power plants and bunkering facilities on Jurong Island. This initiative is part of Singapore’s broader strategy to decarbonize its energy sector and meet the net-zero target by 2050.
Trade and Industry Minister Gan Kim Yong announced the RFP during the Singapore International Energy Week on October 23, 2023. He highlighted that this project is set to be one of the first commercial ventures globally to test ammonia as a fuel for power generation. The project will focus on generating between 55 MW and 65 MW of electricity using low-carbon or zero-carbon ammonia. Additionally, the project will include ammonia bunkering, beginning with shore-to-ship bunkering and eventually progressing to ship-to-ship bunkering.
The RFP follows a successful expression of interest (EOI) launched by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) and the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) in December 2022, which attracted 26 proposals. Six consortiums were shortlisted for consideration, demonstrating strong industry interest in ammonia as a clean energy solution.
Ammonia is considered an effective hydrogen carrier, offering multiple deployment pathways, including its direct use as a low-carbon fuel. The use of ammonia as a power source is seen as an innovative approach to meet the growing demand for clean energy alternatives. The government will work closely with the selected developer, ensuring the successful implementation of this pioneering project.
Alongside ammonia power generation, Singapore is also exploring other low-carbon alternatives, including geothermal heat, biofuels, and small modular nuclear reactors. Minister Gan emphasized the role of the government in facilitating investments and ensuring the resilience of the energy system, particularly in light of global energy market uncertainties.
As part of its ongoing energy transition, Singapore also aims to centralize gas procurement and improve the efficiency of energy consumption across industries and households. The government will employ measures such as carbon taxes and appropriate electricity pricing to drive this transition while ensuring fair economic outcomes for all sectors.
