Singapore’s partnerships with leading international energy organisations are helping to strengthen regional grid connectivity and mobilise renewable energy investment. They are also supporting the assessment of emerging nuclear technologies.
In his opening remarks at SIEW Summit Day 2, H.E. Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry), Singapore, marked a milestone for the event. For the first time, three leading international energy organisations are participating in the Summit on the same day. These are the International Energy Agency (IEA), International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Their participation brings international expertise in energy security, renewable energy and nuclear technologies into the same regional conversation.
Strengthening regional grid connectivity
H.E. Dr Tan emphasised the importance of the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) in strengthening cross-border electricity connectivity. The APG can help build a greener, more resilient regional energy system. He highlighted the IEA's role in supporting the APG through policy analysis and technical expertise. Its recent report on APG financing outlines ways to address investment barriers and make interconnector projects more bankable.
Singapore and the IEA are also working together to strengthen regional expertise in cross-border electricity trade and grid development. Key initiatives include the Singapore-IEA Regional Training Programme and the IEA Regional Cooperation Centre. The 10th Singapore-IEA Forum reinforces this longstanding collaboration.
Mobilising investment for Southeast Asia's renewables
Beyond interconnection, H.E. Dr Tan stressed that renewable energy deployment requires supportive policies and financing.
He welcomed IRENA's recently launched Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Southeast Asia (APRESA). The initiative aims to mobilise investment and accelerate renewable energy deployment across the region.
The Singapore-IRENA High-Level Forum will also explore ways to turn regional renewable energy ambitions into bankable projects.
Building capabilities for emerging nuclear technologies
H.E. Dr Tan also highlighted nuclear energy as a potential option amid advances in technologies such as small modular reactors. Singapore is carefully studying these developments. As part of its ongoing assessment, it will undertake the first phase of the IAEA Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review in 2027.
The inaugural IAEA@SIEW Forum will provide a platform for international dialogue and knowledge-sharing. These exchanges can inform decisions on the safe and secure use of nuclear technologies in the region.
H.E. Dr Tan's remarks highlighted the importance of turning international energy cooperation into practical outcomes. Such partnerships can help countries navigate an increasingly complex energy landscape, he said. They also contribute to the shared goal of building a more secure, affordable and sustainable energy future.
Follow @SIEW_sg on Telegram and X (formerly Twitter) for the latest insights and updates.
