Electricity is so expensive in Singapore... What do I do?

Electricity tariffs are adjusted quarterly in Singapore, to reflect the actual cost of electricity. They are regulated by the Energy Market Authority (EMA).

EMA is also the power system operator, which ensure that Singapore enjoys a reliable and secure supply of electricity. There are two key components of the electricity tariff: fuel and non-fuel costs.

The fuel cost is determined by the natural gas price in the previous quarter, which reflects current market conditions. Up to 95% of Singapore’s electricity is generated from imported natural gas.

Non-fuel costs reflect the cost of generating and delivering electricity to our homes. They include:

1. Power Generation Cost, covering operation costs of power stations,

2. Grid Charge, covering electricity transportation costs,

3. Market Support Services (MSS) Fee, covering billing cost, and

4. Power System Operation and Market Administration Fees, covering the cost of power system operations.

Natural gases are the cleanest form of fossil fuels. However, despite opting for a cleaner source of energy, Singapore’s energy source is non-renewable.

Natural gases are finite, hence it is essential for us to start developing technology for renewable energy. Apart from cost factors, Singaporeans need to consider environmental factors when conserving electricity.

Although considerable clean, natural gases are still fossil fuels which produce greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming and air pollution.

The following are some ways we can conserve energy:

1. Use energy saving appliances

Many electric devices today are energy efficient. Apart from energy-saving light bulbs, refrigerators, televisions, lamps, air-conditioners and clothes-dryers also come with energy labels. These are good indicators for the product’s energy consumption. Always aim for more ticks!

2. Switch off appliances when not in use

Lighting, air-conditioning, fans and televisions are some products that can be switched off when not in use.

3. Prevent electricity waste from the standby mode

Did you know your phone charger is still using energy even when your phone is not attached? Cutting off the energy supply at a power socket for electronic devices not in use can reduce your bills a great deal.

4. Use the fan; open your windows!

Air-conditioners consume 80% more energy than fans do. Singapore’s weather is cool at night, and staying in HDB flats (particularly on higher levels) will ensure enough cool air into your house. Reserve the air-conditioner for the warmest nights, since our temperature drops to as low as 24 degrees Celsius in the night.

5. If you really need the air-conditioner…turn it to 25 degrees Celsius or above

Less energy would be consumed while providing a comfortable climate (without freezing one’s ears off).

6. Dry your clothes naturally instead of using clothes-dryers

Singapore’s sun is so strong, airing clothes outdoors ensures that they would be dry by nightfall. Hanging clothes out of the window is part of the Singaporean charm anyway. Just remember to watch out for rain!

7. Wash clothes with a full load in cold water

This maximises the energy usage and also saves energy on water heating. Your clothes may come out colder, but they dry the same!

8. Switch off the storage water heater when not in use; cut down on shower times

This reduces the time needed to heat water, effectively reducing the electricity used per minute as well. This tip not only reduces your electricity bills, it also reduces your water bills as well! #killingtwobirdswithonestone

9. Don’t overload the refrigerator or keep the door open for too long (make sure that the door is shut tightly as well!)

Too many food items may block air circulation and reduce cooling capabilities. Keeping the door open also reduces the refrigerator’s efficiency.

10. Read more tips here!

Check out http://www.e2singapore.gov.sg/Households/Saving_Energy_At_Home/Tips.aspx for more energy-saving tips!

Saving energy is not something that can be solved solely by the government; it requires the participation of every Singaporean as well.

Help yourself and the environment by cutting down on electricity usage today! You’ll not only reward yourself with cheaper utility bills, but you can also contribute to a greater cause by reducing fossil fuel consumption.

(Mar 2017)