Source: Energy Market Authority
EMA has embarked on a micro-grid test-bed at the jetty area of Pulau Ubin, an island north-east of Singapore.
This test-bed aims to:
1) assess the reliability of electricity supply from a micro-grid infrastructure using intermittent renewable energy resources;
2) provide cleaner, reliable and cost competitive electricity to residents and businesses on Pulau Ubin; and
3) build local capabilities in the area of smart grid design, system integration and management of intermittent renewable energy sources and prepare Singapore for a future when renewables resources become more significant in our energy system.
With the micro-grid, island residents and businesses that rely on diesel generators that are expensive, less convenient and pollutive, will have the option to switch to a cleaner, more reliable and cost competitive source of electricity.
The micro-grid project will also open up opportunities for Singapore companies to spearhead the adoption of such technologies in the region.
A Singapore-based consortium comprising Daily Life Renewable Energy Pte Ltd (DLRE) and OKH Holdings Pte Ltd has been appointed to design, build, own and operate the micro-grid infrastructure.
Pulau Ubin Micro-grid Test-bed
Artist's Impression of the Pulau Ubin Micro-grid Test-bed
What will the test-bed cover?
The test-bed is at the jetty area of Pulau Ubin, where many of its businesses and residents are located. A micro-grid incorporating clean and renewable energy solutions will be built, providing residents and businesses with the option to sign up for reliable and cost competitive electricity.
The first phase will involve the construction of the micro-grid and the deployment of biodiesel and solar photovoltaic (PV) technology.
In the second phase, EMA will invite proposals from companies interested to test-bed their clean and renewable energy solutions with the completed micro-grid infrastructure. This may include advanced solar photovoltaic, micro-wind turbine and biomass technologies.
How will Pulau Ubin benefit from the test-bed?
The micro-grid test-bed infrastructure will bring about cleaner and more cost-competitive electricity with improved scalability and reliability for both residents and businesses at Pulau Ubin.
Clean Energy The micro-grid test-bed will be powered by clean energy resources, including biodiesel and solar photovoltaic cells.
Reliable electricity supply Continuous and reliable supply of electricity to end-users.
Cost-competitive electricity Electricity will be provided by the consortium at a price not exceeding $0.80/kWh, compared to the price of more than $1/kWh which some end-users currently pay for using diesel generators. Any future price increases beyond $0.80/kWh will require EMA's approval.
Scalability End-users can consider higher load electrical appliances such as refrigerators and air-conditioners. This will enable businesses to expand their operations and operating hours.
When will construction of the micro-grid commence and when will it be completed?
Construction of the micro-grid is targeted to commence in the first half of 2012 and be completed by the end of 2012.