Singapore is taking proactive steps to ensure a stable and dependable electricity supply by constructing a new power station capable of quickly generating electricity. On May 19, the Energy Market Authority (EMA) announced that its subsidiary, Meranti Power, will oversee the construction, ownership, and operation of two open cycle gas turbine (OCGT) units within the station on Jurong Island.
The planned quick response units will each have a capacity of 340 megawatts and are expected to be operational by June 2025, according to a joint press release by EMA and Meranti Power. This initiative is in line with Singapore’s intention to retire its existing OCGTs, which have served for over 30 years and are approaching the end of their asset life.
During a groundbreaking ceremony, Second Minister for Trade and Industry, Tan See Leng, highlighted that the new units will replace the current ones, which have a combined capacity of over 400 megawatts. He emphasized that the new power station will cater to the system’s fast start needs and provide backup capacity for future electricity demand growth. Remarkably, this is the first time in three decades that new OCGTs are being built.
OCGTs serve as “offline” units that can supplement the electricity generation of combined cycle gas turbines (CCGT) in the event of sudden supply shortages. While CCGTs can increase output within minutes to address supply imbalances, their spare capacity is limited, and they require considerable time to start up or respond to demand fluctuations. In contrast, OCGTs can be brought online in under 10 minutes, enabling them to swiftly respond to unforeseen circumstances such as equipment failure or unplanned outages. The new OCGTs in Singapore will reach their full 340MW capacity in just an additional 15 minutes.
Dr. Tan highlighted the role of OCGTs in meeting peak electricity demand during periods of extreme heat or when factories are operating at maximum capacity. He emphasized that OCGTs have been reliably supplying electricity during peak hours, especially in recent hot spells, as it is more efficient to do so compared to starting additional CCGTs.
EMA explained that the decision to commission its subsidiary was driven by the lack of commercial interest from the private sector in building new OCGTs. Meranti Power was established on June 16 of the previous year, following the passage of a bill by Parliament granting EMA the authority to acquire, build, own, and operate critical infrastructure.
The new OCGTs in Singapore will primarily use natural gas as fuel, but they can also utilize diesel as a backup. With necessary enhancements, they can accommodate up to 30 percent hydrogen and potentially harness up to 100 percent of gas in the future, according to EMA and Meranti Power. This forward-thinking approach showcases Singapore’s commitment to sustainable and resilient energy solutions.
Also learn about The Future of Renewable Energy in Singapore: Meeting the Country’s Energy Needs Sustainably.
