Singapore Boosts Nuclear Energy Research and Workforce Amid Safety Concerns

Singapore is intensifying its exploration of nuclear energy as a potential power source, focusing on building a skilled workforce and enhancing research capabilities. Authorities have not set a definitive timeline for nuclear energy implementation, but they acknowledge that rigorous safety standards and public confidence will be critical challenges.

Chia Meng Hwee, deputy director of the Energy Market Authority’s (EMA) Nuclear Energy Office, emphasized the importance of public perception. “Nuclear energy is an emotive subject, so we have to take into consideration the public’s understanding and the confidence in the technologies that will be deployed,” he stated. He noted that successful regional deployment could bolster public trust in nuclear technologies, while any setbacks could undermine confidence.

Singapore’s energy landscape is currently dominated by natural gas, which accounts for approximately 95 percent of its electricity generation. This heavy reliance poses vulnerabilities to global price fluctuations and supply chain disruptions. With rising energy demands, limited land, and increasing climate pressures, the need for cleaner and more reliable alternatives has become more urgent. Observers suggest that conventional solutions may not adequately address Singapore’s unique constraints, urging the country to adopt innovative energy strategies.

In response to these challenges, the EMA has engaged the consultancy firm Mott MacDonald to examine various nuclear energy technologies. Recent advancements, particularly in small modular reactors (SMRs), are making nuclear energy a more feasible option for Singapore’s land-scarce environment. SMRs are designed to be simpler and potentially faster and more cost-effective to build compared to traditional large-scale reactors, which can take nearly a decade to construct.

The operating capacity of SMRs is about a third that of conventional reactors, producing around 300 megawatts per unit. Their smaller footprint and modular design facilitate easier construction and scalability, with prefabricated components that can be assembled on-site.

Safety is a paramount concern for Singapore. Dr. Ming Tan, global nuclear practice lead at Mott MacDonald, reiterated the non-negotiable nature of safety. “Therefore, we’ll be focusing on the key safety and design advancements in SMRs, such as the inherent safety features and their simpler, more compact plant design,” he explained. The focus will also be on understanding regulatory progress and ensuring that these technologies meet stringent safety criteria.

As part of its national radiation monitoring program, Singapore continuously tests air, land, and water samples for potential radiation. A network of monitoring stations across the island ensures prompt detection of anomalies that could indicate nuclear radiation, thereby safeguarding public health.

The regional implications of Singapore’s nuclear initiatives are significant. Neighboring countries, including the Philippines and Indonesia, are already taking preliminary steps to explore nuclear power. Ang Kok Kiat, group director for radiation protection and nuclear science at the National Environment Agency, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation. “We are catalysing nuclear safety cooperation among our counterpart regulators in the region,” he noted, pointing to collaborations within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that have led to tangible outcomes, such as regional early warning systems.

The Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute is working to consolidate expertise in nuclear technology and safety while developing a skilled workforce to support future nuclear initiatives. Associate Professor Chung Keng Yeow, director of the institute, stated, “All the preparation work, especially for the institute, building up manpower, sending people on scholarships overseas – is already indicating some sort of a start.”

As Singapore navigates the complexities of potentially integrating nuclear energy into its energy mix, the emphasis remains on safety, public engagement, and regional collaboration. The country’s proactive approach to building expertise and understanding the technology’s implications may pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable energy future.