Clean Energy Key To Solving Singapore’s Water Challenge: Chan Chun Sing
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Singapore, March 17: Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing stated on Tuesday (Mar 17) that in order to improve the nation’s water resilience, Singapore will require more energy-efficient technology and help homes and businesses manage their water demand, reported by CNA media.
Mr Chan stated that the government has the technology to “largely” process the water it requires while speaking at Singapore World Water Day and the annual water conservation campaign launch of national water agency PUB.
As per CNA media, he stated that Singapore’s reliance on water had now given way to a reliance on electricity. Mr. Chan, the defence minister, stated, “Our first challenge for the next chapter of the water story is not just better technology to process the water that we need, but how to have such technologies with the lowest consumption of electricity or energy as much as possible.”
The focus now, he said, is not just on improving water technology, but on making it more energy efficient. Access to clean, renewable energy at scale could help solve both energy and water challenges together.
The issue has gained attention amid global tensions, including in the Middle East, which have highlighted the risks around energy supply. However, the concern goes beyond short-term disruptions. Climate change and long-term energy security remain bigger challenges for Singapore.
At the same time, authorities are urging households and businesses to manage water demand. Average household water use in Singapore stood at 141 litres per person per day in 2025, only slightly lower than the previous year. Factors like rising temperatures and hybrid work patterns continue to push consumption higher.
To address this, Singapore’s national water agency Public Utilities Board has launched a programme to help households save water. The initiative will support selected homes with water audits, leak repairs and replacement of inefficient fittings.
Looking ahead, total water demand in Singapore is expected to nearly double by 2065, with businesses making up a larger share of usage. This puts added pressure on both supply and efficiency.
Officials say improving water efficiency is not just about conservation but also about competitiveness. Companies that use less water and energy could gain an advantage as resources become tighter.
The message from policymakers is clear. Managing demand and improving efficiency will be as important as building new supply. But in the long run, the country’s water future may depend on how quickly it can secure clean and reliable energy.
