Singapore's low-carbon power imports lag far behind 2035 goal

A Wood Mackenzie report indicates Singapore is on track to source just 15% of its electricity from low-carbon imports by 2035, roughly half the government's goal. Although the Energy Market Authority has approved 9.25 GW of import capacity across six regional corridors, no approved project has reached financial close or started construction, so natural gas—which supplies 95% of the country's power—will remain dominant. Malaysia is seen as the most viable short-term supplier because of an existing high-voltage link, while Indonesian projects face permit and financing hurdles and routes involving Vietnam, Cambodia, and Australia are not expected soon.

Wood Mackenzie's update says Singapore's low-carbon import program has stalled. Regulators have cleared 9.25 GW across six regional routes, yet none has secured financing or broken ground. Natural gas, providing 95% of electricity, is therefore likely to stay central. Malaysia offers the nearest option because an existing high-voltage link can carry up to 1 GW in both directions.

Indonesia accounts for 37% of approved capacity but faces permit uncertainty, local-content rules and financing delays; export approvals must be refreshed every five years, and quotas can be pulled if domestic supply is at risk. Vietnam, Cambodia and Australia make up 43% but are not expected soon.