‘Air-con nation’ Singapore eyes alternatives to cool down

Singapore, often dubbed an "air-conditioned nation," is exploring alternative cooling methods to reduce its energy consumption and carbon emissions. About 99% of private residences in the city-state have air conditioners, making it the region with the highest per-capita ownership. Buildings account for one-fifth of Singapore's emissions, with cooling systems consuming 40 to 60 percent of a building's energy.

To combat this, some buildings are experimenting with active chilled beams, perforated ceiling panels equipped with cooling coils. A chiller plant cools water to 9°C, which is pumped through the coils and circulated through the beams. Air is then blasted through small nozzles, creating a low-pressure zone that draws in warm air from the room below and cools it before recirculating. This technology keeps the Paya Lebar Green building at a comfortable 24°C, without the constant hum of traditional air conditioning units.

Another method is passive displacement cooling, which utilizes natural airflow to reduce reliance on mechanical fans. Ceiling cooling coils chill the air, which sinks and then rises back to the coils as it warms, reducing the need for fans and energy consumption. Radiant cooling also shows promise, using chilled water flowing through pipes or panels to absorb heat radiating from people or objects, thereby reducing ambient temperatures.

The Singapore government supports these alternative cooling solutions, recognizing their potential to save up to 48% in energy. By mid-2026, at least 33 public buildings and 14 private ones have adopted these technologies. While these alternative methods cost more to install than conventional air conditioning, they offer significant energy savings over time. However, a mindset shift is needed for users accustomed to air-conditioned spaces, as they may require higher temperatures for comfort.