Dr Sanjay C Kuttan

A special thanks to Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) for highlighting EDP in the Business for Good campaign. It's a privilege to be part of Singapore's compelling energy narrative, which exemplifies how a dynamic ecosystem can facilitate regional energy transition. Singapore has set ambitious environmental goals, aiming to achieve 2GWp of solar deployment by 2030. As of mid-2024, the nation is well on its way, having already deployed 1.35GWp of solar energy. EDP is a key enabler in this endeavour, contributing to over 30% of Singapore's installed solar portfolio (congratulations to the EDP Renewables APAC team!) Our success in various innovative projects, made possible by the nation’s supportive environment for renewables, highlights the powerful impact of public-private partnerships. These collaborations are essential to propel the energy transition in the region. Singapore's electricity demand is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8-3.2% from 2022 to 2032. Currently, Singapore relies heavily on natural gas, which accounts for about 94% of its energy mix. However, by 2035, the country aims to reduce this reliance to just over 50%, with renewable energy making up over 30% of the mix. This shift is part of Singapore's broader strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Working alongside partners like EDB, EDP Renewables is committed to pushing the boundaries of renewables deployment and accelerating Singapore and the region path towards net-zero. Together, we are forging a sustainable future for all. Read the full feature below. #EDPWeChooseEarth

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Fresh off the press: A guidance for green independent power producer (#IPP) agreements in #Asia. This guidance, developed as part of the Green Energy Network Asia (GEN-A) provides actionable insights across the project lifecycle for green IPPs to accelerate the #energy transition. Based on in-depth research and interviews, we develop clear action pathways from request for proposals (RfP) and power purchase agreement (#PPA) structuring to construction, financing, and long-term operation with a focus on sponsors from #China. Key findings include: - For (Chinese) IPP sponsors: Success depends not only on financing capacity and engineering delivery, but on the ability to navigate complex local regulations, labour expectations, and payment or FX risk in the operation phase. Sponsors must align EPC and O&M performance with international standards, engage early on environmental and social safeguards, and structure projects for long-term reliability—not just construction speed. - For Asian off-takers: The credibility of renewable expansion depends on issuing realistic and transparent RfPs, ensuring PPA structures support bankability, and providing timely permits, payments, and grid readiness. Many off-takers can improve coordination between central and local agencies, especially on land and environmental approvals, while upholding performance oversight and public accountability. This would not have been possible without the great collaboration with stellar colleagues, experts and friends including Mustafa Hyder Sayed, Fabby Tumiwa, Muhammad Aulia Anis, Muhammad Umar Farooq and expert institutions such as Pakistan-China Institute, Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), Climate Smart Ventures and Green Finance & Development Center (GFDC).

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As ASEAN nations strive to meet growing energy demands while addressing climate change, #Nuclear energy is emerging as a promising solution for providing stable, low-carbon power. However, its also offers significant potential but also shared responsibilities. Through strong regional cooperation, the member states can address challenges related to technologies, fuel sourcing, waste handling, and non-proliferation, ensuring the safe and sustainable deployment of nuclear power. Countries in #ASEAN are exploring nuclear power as a means to diversify their energy mix. #Vietnam, #Indonesia, and the #Philippines have shown significant interest. Vietnam plans to commission its first nuclear plant by the 2030s, Indonesia is targeting the late 2030s, and the Philippines aims to introduce nuclear energy by 2035, potentially reviving its Bataan Nuclear Power Plant. The region is evaluating various nuclear technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), which offer scalability, lower upfront costs, and suitability for areas with limited grid infrastructure. Advanced reactors using thorium as a fuel source are also being considered due to their reduced waste generation and enhanced safety. Fuel sourcing, however, remains a major challenge. Reliable access to uranium or thorium supplies will require shared agreements or partnerships with established nuclear fuel suppliers. Collaborative efforts can also facilitate regional fuel cycle facilities, reducing dependency on external sources and increasing self-sufficiency. Waste management is another significant concern. Establishing shared regional frameworks for handling nuclear waste can ease the financial and technical burdens on individual countries. Solutions like regional repositories for spent fuel and research into advanced reprocessing technologies could minimize waste and improve resource utilization. A collective approach will enable ASEAN nations to manage this challenge efficiently while ensuring environmental safety. Proliferation risks are among the most pressing challenges. The dual-use nature of nuclear technology means that peaceful applications could be diverted for military purposes if not properly monitored. Regional collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is crucial to ensure compliance with non-proliferation treaties and the implementation of robust safeguards. This requires transparent security measures, capacity-building programs, and knowledge sharing to prevent misuse of nuclear materials and technology. By working together, ASEAN can build trust and credibility in its nuclear energy programs. Cross-border risks, such as accidents or radiation leaks, necessitate coordinated efforts in safety regulations, emergency response frameworks, and public communication. Shared investments in research, training programs, and infrastructure development will reducing costs for individual nations. Great discussions we had with former IEA ED Nobuo Tanaka

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Decarbonisation in the ASEAN region at the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2025 . Key themes : 1. Regional carbon market / emissions trading system (ETS) Currently ASEAN lacks a formalised compliance-ETS (unlike the EU, US, South Korea etc.). Malaysia should push for an ASEAN ETS and broader carbon trading / credit mechanisms among member states. Sarawak is developing waste-to-energy, nature-based solutions, micro-algae for SAF (sustainable aviation fuel) which tie into decarbonisation, carbon credits and new value chains. On carbon markets: “We must work together to develop transparent policies, reliable measurement standards, and effective carbon credit mechanisms that drive real impact in emissions reduction.” 2. Clean energy transition & decarbonisation in Sarawak (and as a model for ASEAN) Sarawak aims to position itself as a “clean energy hub” or “Battery of ASEAN”, exporting low-carbon energy to neighbours. Four strategic hubs identified: renewable energy, natural gas, carbon capture & storage (CCS), and hydrogen. Specific targets: Sarawak has over 70% of its electricity already derived from hydropower, expanding renewables by 2030 & 2035. Solar, biomass, hydrogen, bio-fuels (and associated rural economy/job linkages) are part of the decarbonisation strategy. 3. Regional cooperation & grid interconnection Decarbonisation in ASEAN is not just national but regional: inter-connection of power grids, cross-border exports, harmonisation of regulation. Example: efforts to link Borneo/Sarawak’s clean-power resources with neighbours (West Kalimantan, Brunei, Sabah, Singapore) as part of export strategy. 4. Just / inclusive transition, leveraging economic opportunities The narratives emphasise that decarbonisation brings economic benefits: jobs, innovation, value-chains (e.g., hydrogen exports, waste-to-energy, micro-algae fuel) rather than just costs. Also emphasised: making sure the transition is inclusive (local communities/SMEs involved) and adjusting for regional diversity within ASEAN (some countries have very different development levels). --- Implications for ASEAN decarbonisation (based on his views) efforts: Need for region-wide carbon pricing/ETS: Without a regional market, carbon credits remain low-value and voluntary. An ASEAN ETS could help mobilise capital and raise ambition. Leveraging natural resource advantages: Regions like Sarawak with hydropower, solar potential, hydrogen potential can become drivers of low-carbon economies and export hubs within ASEAN. Cross-border connectivity & integrated markets: Power grids, hydrogen trade, CCS infrastructure should be viewed across borders, not just within national boundaries. Emerging technologies as dual-purpose: Using hydrogen, CCS, bio-fuels not only for decarbonisation but for industrial/economic growth. #SarawakMajuMakmur

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