Should Singapore adopt nuclear energy?
THE ENVIRONMENT
Pictures of our people were taken by Chinnadurai Navin Kishore
The DPMs may be contacted at smc2026cabB@gmail.com
Should Singapore take more steps to attain net zero emissions by 2050?
Singapore started its journey towards nuclear energy in 2010 by conducting a Nuclear Energy Pre-Feasibility Study. Although it was deemed then that conventional large-scale nuclear technology was not suitable due to population density and land constraints, the global nuclear landscape has since evolved with the development of Small Modular Reactors emerging as potentially safer and more suitable alternatives for land-scarce countries. Nuclear energy is also generally considered more environmentally friendly than fossil fuels, and will support Singapore’s efforts in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. In addition, around 95% of Singapore’s electricity is currently generated using imported natural gas. Through nuclear energy, Singapore will be able to ensure greater energy self-sufficiency without having to depend on other countries for stable power generation. Thus, in this Cabinet, representatives will explore how factors such as energy security, land use and urban planning and environmental goals play a role in whether Singapore should move ahead with nuclear energy.
Singapore’s pursuit of net-zero emissions by 2050 takes place within a broader global momentum toward deep decarbonisation. As the highest per capita emitter in ASEAN, Singapore faces the challenge of reconciling carbon-intensive economic structures with ambitious climate targets. At the same time, as a low-lying coastal city-state, Singapore is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. However, unlike larger economies that are land-rich with abundant renewable resources, Singapore faces deep structural constraints typical of small island states. Therefore, Singapore must navigate difficult trade-offs between preserving its role as an industrial hub and achieving deep emissions reductions. Thus, in this Cabinet, representatives will explore how factors such as global pressures, domestic constraints and existing policies regarding climate change play a role in whether Singapore should take more steps to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, while not undermining its economic competitiveness, energy security and citizens’ welfare.
Image drawn by Aurelia Keisha Rahman
Image drawn by Aurelia Keisha Rahman
