Singapore eyes role in global fusion energy industry

Singapore is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on the burgeoning global fusion energy industry, despite the technology not being commercially viable for years. Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Tan See Leng highlighted Singapore's talent pool and expertise in fusion-relevant fields such as precision engineering, advanced manufacturing, and plasma diagnostics.

While fusion energy differs from nuclear fission, both require complex conditions to generate power. Singapore's progress in overcoming these challenges has gained international attention, with the fusion ecosystem projected to reach a value of US$419.84 billion by the end of the decade. Singapore is monitoring the developments and is keen on exploring its potential benefits, including lower radioactive waste generation and reduced risk of runaway reactions.

The country's energy security and long-term planning necessitate exploring innovative pathways like fusion. Notably, Singapore has already begun establishing partnerships and building capabilities in fusion technologies. These include collaborations with Commonwealth Fusion Systems, A*STAR, and ST Engineering, among others.