Not feasible for S'pore to avoid net-zero emissions: Tan See Leng

All options being looked at to ensure energy is cost-effective and sustainable, says minister

- Chin Hui Shan

It is no longer feasible or practical for Singapore to avoid working towards a net-zero future, said Dr Tan See Leng, Singapore's Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology.

Fluctuations in the prices of fossil fuels due to geopolitical conflicts have driven up energy prices. Dealing with the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels, is also critical for Singapore, he said.

"Energy is existential for us, just like water was existential in the 90s," Dr Tan said in his first formal interview as Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology on July 21.

The portfolio sits under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and was created in the latest round of Cabinet changes in May. Dr Tan was previously Second Minister for Trade and Industry, and he continues to helm the Manpower Ministry in the new Cabinet.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had said that science and technology are key drivers of growth, while energy - especially clean energy - will be an important part of his Government's agenda.

Singapore now relies on natural gas, a fossil fuel, for about 95 per cent of its energy needs.

The Republic's goal is to reach net-zero emissions - where the total amount of emissions is balanced by activities to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere - by 2050.

Achieving this would require the energy sector, which makes up about 40 per cent of the nation's total emissions, to cut its emissions.

Dr Tan said Singapore is exploring all possible options in its energy transition to ensure its energy needs are met in a sustainable, resilient and cost-effective way.

"Nothing is off the table. We will explore every single pathway, every single possibility, and... make sure it is cost-effective and sustainable," he said.