Electricity Demand and Grid Stress from Prolonged Heat Wave
Ministry of Trade and IndustrySpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the impact of high temperatures on electricity consumption and the adequacy of grid monitoring and contingency measures. Dr Lim Wee Kiak inquired about demand trends and the government's preparedness for potential grid stress during prolonged heat waves. Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong stated that peak demand rose 8% to 7.9 gigawatts in May, which remains within the 9.4 gigawatt installed capacity. He noted that the Energy Market Authority and SP Group conduct 24/7 monitoring and can deploy Open Cycle Gas Turbines if necessary. The Minister also highlighted demand management initiatives, such as Energy Efficiency schemes and rewards for consumers who reduce usage during peak periods.
Transcript
19 Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether there has been a significant increase in electricity consumption since the onset of record high temperatures in Singapore; (b) what measures are in place to monitor and assess electricity demand and grid stress; and (c) what contingency plans are in place to address potential challenges in meeting the increased electricity demand during heat waves or prolonged periods of high temperatures and under what circumstances will they be activated.
Mr Gan Kim Yong: Electricity consumption is likely to be higher during the hotter months of April and May. This year, peak electricity demand increased by about 8% from 7.3 gigawatts in February to 7.9 gigawatts in May.
We have sufficient generation and grid capacity to meet the increased electricity demand arising from higher temperatures. The existing installed capacity of Combined Cycle Gas Turbines used for power generation is 9.4 gigawatts, higher than the peak electricity demand we experienced.
System demand and network conditions are closely monitored in real time 24/7 by the Energy Market Authority (EMA). The national grid operator, SP Group, also has round-the-clock monitoring of our transmission and distribution network. During periods of increased demand, EMA can direct generation units, such as Open Cycle Gas Turbines, to supply additional electricity to meet the system’s needs.
Consumers are strongly encouraged to manage their demand for energy. The National Environment Agency (NEA) and Economic Development Board have introduced Energy Efficiency schemes to incentivise households and businesses to adopt energy-efficient technologies. EMA has also introduced the Demand Response and Interruptible Load schemes which reward consumers when they reduce their electricity usage during periods of high overall demand, so as to mitigate peak demand and improve system reliability.