Singapore considers nuclear energy

Keep options open!

This was the advice of energy experts for Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry's International Advisory Panel in meeting the city state's future energy needs.

Singapore announced that they are keeping nuclear energy as an option to meet their long-term energy needs.

This comes after the country has conducted years of study on the feasibility of nuclear energy.

The decision is totally agreed by the panel, adding that they also agree with the decision to strengthen the capabilities to understand nuclear science and technology, and to develop a strong safety culture and know-how.
"Nuclear safety should be a priority research area," the panel said.

The panel also added that regional energy inter-connectivity is in need to tap other energy options.

The panel also encouraged Singapore to closely monitor developments unconventional gas developments in North America,which will have significant impact on gas supplies and markets in the rest of the world. 

Besides, Singapore should continue to develop and advance energy sources such as solar and waste-to-energy, as well as upgrade their energy efficiency. Continuing research and development in advanced energy innovation, including smart grids, carbon capture and sequestration, should also be conducted by the government for the long-term future.

But not everyone totally agrees with the panel's recommendation on nuclear power.

Peter Schwartz, chairman of the Global Business Network, finds nuclear power plants way too large for Singapore, both in physical area and power output.

"It is far more likely to have a nuclear power plant somewhere in the region that Singapore can connect to," he said.

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