Existing gas turbines could play a new role in low-carbon power generation as engineers explore ways to adapt them for ammonia.
Thorbjörn Fors, Group Senior Vice President and President Asia Pacific, Siemens Energy, examined this potential in his keynote, Engineering the Sweden-Singapore Energy Partnership. He spoke at the Spotlight Sweden Forum.
Energy security drives the search for alternative fuels
Mr Fors noted that Southeast Asia's energy demand is projected to grow by around 5 percent annually. In Singapore, natural gas accounts for about 95 percent of electricity generation.
He also highlighted how geopolitical developments have increased the emphasis on energy security.
Given its reliance on imported fuels, Singapore is exploring low-carbon energy carriers to diversify its energy sources and support sustainability goals.
Why ammonia could work for Asia
Transporting renewable-derived energy over long distances remains a challenge for many Asian markets.
Mr Fors explained that hydrogen can be transported through existing pipeline networks in parts of Europe. However, major Asian energy markets are often located far from suitable renewable energy resources.
Converting hydrogen into ammonia could therefore offer a more practical way to deliver that energy to demand centres such as Singapore, Japan and South Korea.
Adapting Swedish technology for ammonia power
Transporting ammonia is only part of the challenge. It must also be used to generate electricity. This is where Siemens Energy's gas turbine technology comes in. The company is adapting gas turbines developed in Sweden to use green ammonia. It is building on existing technology rather than developing an entirely new power generation system.
The development brings together the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University and industrial partner Keppel, alongside government agencies and research institutions.
The proposed 60-megawatt facility would provide an initial step towards larger-scale ammonia-based power generation. Construction is envisaged in the coming years. Siemens Energy plans to recruit approximately 50 people in Singapore and another 50 to 60 in Sweden to support technology development.
The approach reflects a practical focus on adapting established technology for emerging fuels. While ammonia-based generation remains under development, Mr Fors saw a potential role for it alongside other energy options being explored by Singapore.
Stay tuned as the conversation evolves throughout the day. Follow @SIEW_sg on Telegram and X (formerly Twitter) for key insights and the latest updates.
