Transforming the energy and chemicals sector towards a greener future
Singapore is aiming to significantly transform its energy and chemicals (E&C) sector by 2050, as outlined in the Singapore Economic Development Board’s (EDB) “Sustainable Jurong Island” report. The plan includes quadrupling sustainable product output from 2019 levels and achieving over six million tonnes of carbon abatement annually through low-carbon solutions.
Key Objectives for 2030
The initiative is part of the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and focuses on three primary targets:
Increasing sustainable product output by 1.5 times.
Positioning local refineries and crackers among the world’s most energy-efficient facilities.
Unlocking two million tonnes of carbon capture capacity.
The announcement, made by Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong at Shell’s groundbreaking ceremony for its pyrolysis oil upgrader, emphasised the necessity of adapting to the global energy transition.
Strategic Support and Development
The government is implementing infrastructure and research initiatives, including a proposed carbon capture and utilisation test-bedding facility led by A*STAR, EDB, and JTC. Enhanced schemes now support decarbonisation measures like carbon capture, utilisation, and storage technologies, alongside non-CO2 greenhouse gas reduction.
Economic and Global Impact
Currently, the E&C sector is a cornerstone of Singapore’s economy, contributing 20% of its total output and employing 27,000 people. With Singapore ranked as the eighth-largest global exporter of chemicals in 2019, this transition aims to ensure Jurong Island’s relevance amidst the global shift towards sustainable energy.
EDB chairman Dr Beh Swan Gin highlighted the opportunity for innovation, stating that Jurong Island’s companies could lead in advancing low-carbon solutions, benefiting both Singapore and the international community.
