Western island reclamation will create space for industries, low-carbon energy sources: Analysts
The island could provide an option for nuclear energy infrastructure.
Singapore plans to create a new western island off the coast of Jurong Island, where industries and low-carbon energy sources can thrive, according to analysts. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced the project during the National Day Rally on August 23. The reclaimed land will merge with existing islands such as Pulau Semakau, Pulau Bukom, and Pulau Sudong to form a new hub for various energy sources.
Analysts believe the new island would allow Singapore to design an integrated energy hub, incorporating nuclear energy and other low-carbon sources. Matthew Chew, nuclear competency and strategy lead at HY, said the island would provide long-term physical space for technologies that may not be commercially viable yet. Tan-Soo Jie Sheng, an expert at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, noted that offshore land provides direct maritime access and allows for the construction of large-scale energy infrastructure.
The new island could also serve as a strategic location for defense purposes, as it is near the Singapore Armed Forces' Pulau Sudong military runway. This proximity would enhance security by providing strict access controls and reducing the risk of sabotage or drone intrusions, similar to the existing security measures on Jurong Island. However, land use for nuclear energy would require careful consideration of environmental and safety issues.
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