Pressing climate challenges today have pressured governments worldwide, especially the United Nations member states, to take bold strides towards a sustainable future. It’s no different here in our tropical nation, as Singapore works to implement proactive measures to address the impact human activities have on the environment. For example, our government has been encouraging the widespread adoption of renewable solar energy and the installation of solar panels across residential and commercial spaces. Read more about Singapore’s stance on climate change and the use of solar power below.
Singapore Green Plan
Before we dive straight into solar power, let’s take a look at Singapore’s sustainability goals as outlined in the Singapore Green Plan 2023. It is a forward-thinking sustainability blueprint launched in February 2021 that details a series of targets Singapore aims to achieve by 2030, and it drives the strategies and initiatives that will be implemented for a greener future. Not only is it a demonstration of our nation’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, it also represents our goal to combat climate change and promote environmental stewardship.
At its core, the Singapore Green Plan seeks to achieve four key objectives:
- Reduce Singapore’s carbon emissions and enhance climate resilience through a combination of mitigation and adaptation measures.
- Protect and restore Singapore’s natural ecosystems by enhancing green spaces, expanding nature reserves, and promoting sustainable land use practices.
- Minimise waste generation and promote circular economy principles, such as recycling, and promote sustainable consumption and production patterns.
- Foster green innovation and increase economic opportunities in the energy sector
Role of Solar Energy in the Green Plan
Singapore sees the potential and understands the importance of solar energy, which comes as no surprise, especially when our tropical city-state receives an abundance of sunlight annually. In fact, one of the goals outlined in the Green Plan is to increase solar capacity—deploy at least two gigawatt-peak of solar energy by 2030, which will be able to generate sufficient electricity to power around 350,000 households. By choosing to harness solar energy, we can help to reduce carbon emissions and even enhance our energy security—no longer relying on imported fossil fuels.
Learn More: Living Sustainably: How Solar Panels Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Did you know that Singapore has already begun installing solar panels on rooftops of schools and public facilities? There’s even a 60 megawatt-peak inland floating solar PV system situated at Tengeh Reservoir!
How is Singapore Encouraging the Adoption of Solar
But in order for us to meet our climate change targets, we need everyone’s help. This is why Singapore has introduced various incentives and initiatives to entice businesses and landed property homeowners to adopt solar power. For example, by offering solar rebates for residential solar panels, and the Power Purchase Agreement. These can lower solar panel installation costs or reduce the financial burden of investing in solar.
Our government has also been facilitating the installation of solar panels on the roofs of HDB buildings to power common lighting areas. This promotes sustainable practices within residential communities.
As Singapore marches forward on its journey towards sustainability, solar energy continues to shine as a hope and possibility for a cleaner tomorrow. By embracing solar energy, Singapore is not just mitigating climate change but also building a more resilient and prosperous society. As individuals and businesses, we play a crucial role in this transition. Let’s seize this opportunity to make a positive impact on our planet and leave a legacy of sustainability for future generations.
PMCE is a solar company in Singapore that specialises in installing solar panels to help businesses and households easily adopt solar energy. Drop us a message to take the first step towards sustainability today.
