PacificLight Power (PLP) has received approval from Singapore’s Energy Market Authority (EMA) to construct a new hydrogen-ready gas power plant on Jurong Island, marking a significant step in Singapore's decarbonization efforts. This project aligns with the nation's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and diversifying its energy sources, which currently rely heavily on imported natural gas.

The approved project involves building, owning, and operating a hydrogen-ready combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) facility. This facility is slated to begin supplying at least 600 megawatts (MW) of power by January 2029. PLP already operates an 830 MW CCGT facility in Singapore, established in 2014. The new plant, built on a greenfield site, will be capable of utilizing a blend of at least 30% hydrogen at its inception, with the potential to transition to 100% hydrogen in the future. It will also incorporate a large-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to enhance grid stability. The site's design allows for the addition of a second CCGT unit and future integration of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology.

In addition to this major project, PLP is also developing a 100 MW Fast Start power generating unit, expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2025. These units are crucial for rapidly responding to unexpected power fluctuations and ensuring a consistent electricity supply. PLP CEO Yu Tat Ming emphasized the company's commitment to delivering both projects safely and on schedule, highlighting the integration of hydrogen and battery storage technologies as key to transitioning to a low-carbon energy future.

PLP’s involvement extends beyond domestic power generation. In collaboration with Indonesia's Medco Power Global and Singapore-based Gallant Venture, the company is developing a project to import 600 MW of solar power from Bulan Island, Indonesia. PLP is jointly owned by shareholders of Hong Kong-based First Pacific Group and the Philippines' Meralco PowerGen Corp.

Singapore's electricity demand is steadily increasing, driven by energy-intensive sectors like advanced manufacturing, the digital economy, and the electrification of transportation. Currently, approximately 95% of Singapore's electricity is generated using imported natural gas. The move towards hydrogen-compatible power plants is crucial for achieving its climate targets. Singapore anticipates having at least nine such plants by 2030, with hydrogen potentially fulfilling up to half of the nation's energy needs by 2050.

Other companies are also contributing to this transition. Keppel Infrastructure is developing Singapore’s first hydrogen-ready power plant, expected to be operational in 2026, and YTL PowerSeraya secured the right to develop a new hydrogen turbine, anticipated for completion by 2027. The EMA has implemented a Centralised Process to facilitate private investment in new generation capacity, forecasting electricity demand and available capacity over a 10-year horizon. This process ensures adequate generation capacity to meet rising demand and maintain grid reliability. PLP’s selection for this project, chosen from six proposals, underscores its important role in Singapore’s evolving energy landscape.