Small Modular Reactors: A Modern Approach to Power Singapore’s Data Centers

In a recent dialogue at the Singapore International Energy Week summit, Energy Market Authority (EMA) CEO Puah Kok Keong offered insights into Singapore’s energy strategy regarding data centers. He spotlighted the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) as a feasible option for the nation’s power demands. Unlike traditional nuclear facilities, which possess a vast generating capacity, SMRs are designed to operate at roughly a third of that level, making them more adaptable to Singapore’s unique challenges.

“These have a lot more passive safety designs that will prevent the reactors from a meltdown,” Mr. Puah remarked, emphasizing that the compact size of SMRs could play a pivotal role in electrifying smaller systems like those within Singapore.

Exploring the potential of small modular reactors in Singapore.

A Historical Perspective on Nuclear Energy

Singapore’s pursuit of nuclear energy is not new; it dates back a decade when authorities conducted a feasibility study. The findings indicated that the large footprint of conventional reactors was impractical for the space-constrained city-state. However, with advancements in nuclear technology leaning towards safer and smaller options, Puah confirmed, “This is a space that we are going to be watching very closely.”

While no commercial SMRs are in operation yet, Singapore remains watchful, poised to act as the market evolves. The EMA’s proactive stance underlines how the nation is gearing up to embrace future innovations in energy consumption.

Embracing Ammonia for Low-Carbon Electricity

In tandem with exploring nuclear options, the EMA is also setting sights on ammonia as a low-carbon resource. The goal is ambitious: to import up to 4 gigawatts of low-carbon electricity by 2035, representing a significant portion—around 30%—of the nation’s projected electricity supply.

The EMA, collaborating with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, envisions a future where ammonia becomes a cornerstone, not just for power generation but also for marine bunkering. Notably, four Singapore-registered ships are set to implement ammonia as a fuel source by 2026, a pioneering step in the nation’s maritime sector.

Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges

Despite the promising outlook, Puah candidly acknowledged the hurdles accompanying these renewable energy ambitions. He explained that while the technology for producing green hydrogen is established, the financial and logistical aspects surrounding its transportation need further refinement.

In terms of ammonia’s advantages, its denser energy content affords easier compression and liquefaction than hydrogen, which eases its transportation challenges. However, he warned, “The use of ammonia compared to hydrogen in power generation is a lot less tested.”

“I am optimistic that if enough effort, enough energy is put into working on the problems, and scaling it up, it is quite possible to drive down the cost curve quite quickly,” he asserted.

Lessons from Renewable Technology Deployment

Drawing comparisons with renewable sources like wind and solar, Puah highlighted a noticeable trend: both have drastically reduced in cost within the last five years, becoming more economical than conventional fossil fuels. Surfacing intermittency issues still present challenges, but advancements in battery technology are emerging as a solution, enhancing energy storage capacity to bridge gaps during peak demands.

In Conclusion
As Singapore grapples with its future energy landscape, the pivot towards small modular reactors and ammonia symbolizes a broader shift towards sustainable energy practices. With active engagement from the government and innovative developments on the horizon, Singapore is primed to navigate its way toward a low-carbon future, ensuring that its energy infrastructure can meet the demands of an increasingly digital world.

The future of energy: the rise of sustainable solutions.