Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 7, Singapore’s Energy Market Authority (EMA) has appointed Mott MacDonald Singapore Pte Limited, a subsidiary of the UK-headquartered engineering consultancy, to conduct a study on the safety and technical feasibility of advanced nuclear energy technologies. The appointment follows a tender launched in December 2024 for consultancy services in this field.

Singapore's Marina Bay

The study will focus on evaluating the safety performance, technology maturity, and commercial readiness of advanced nuclear energy solutions, including small modular reactors (SMRs). EMA emphasized that the objective is to build knowledge and expertise rather than signal an immediate plan to deploy nuclear power. The authority stated: "However, it is important for Singapore to continue to build our capabilities and work with various experts to improve our understanding of nuclear energy, especially advanced nuclear energy technologies. Any decision to deploy nuclear energy will need to be carefully considered against its safety, reliability, affordability, and environmental sustainability in Singapore's context."

This initiative aligns with Singapore’s long-term climate goals. The country has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by or around 2050, as announced by Finance Minister Lawrence Wong earlier this year. Currently, the power sector contributes about 40% of Singapore’s carbon emissions, and electricity demand is projected to increase. Decarbonizing power generation is therefore central to fulfilling national and international commitments.

In March 2022, EMA published a report indicating that nuclear energy could potentially provide around 10% of Singapore’s energy needs, assisting in the effort to reach carbon neutrality in the power sector by 2050. More recently, in October 2024, EMA signed a memorandum of understanding with the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company in the UAE. The agreement aims to strengthen capabilities in nuclear science and technology, particularly in areas such as the assessment of emerging technologies and the development of skilled personnel. Collaborative efforts will include workshops, technical exchanges, and staff attachments.

During the Budget 2025 announcement in February, Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the government’s intent to study nuclear energy more deeply and to build institutional capacity. He said: "We will need new capabilities to evaluate options, and to consider if there is a solution that Singapore can deploy in a safe and cost-effective way."

The appointment of Mott MacDonald is a significant step in advancing this agenda. By assessing the feasibility and safety of advanced nuclear technologies, Singapore is positioning itself to make informed decisions on potential future energy pathways. The study is expected to provide valuable insights into whether advanced nuclear could play a role in diversifying Singapore’s energy mix, ensuring secure and sustainable electricity supply, and contributing to long-term decarbonisation efforts.

This initiative reflects Singapore’s strategy of exploring multiple energy options while balancing sustainability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness to meet growing power demand and environmental commitments.