Solar Energy vs Natural Gas for Power Generation
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Energy Market Authority (EMA) stated in The Straits Times – Forum – 1 Sep 06
Alternative fuels wonÂ’t fully replace fossil ones
EMA informed that there is consensus that fossil fuels – oil, natural gas and coal – will continue to be the dominant fuels that will meet the bulk of the world’s energy needs.
They are more economical than many alternative energy sources, and there are adequate reserves to meet global energy demand for at least the next 40 years (longer for coal).
In Singapore, about 80 per cent of our electricity today is generated from natural gas. This is the cleanest and most energy –efficient option, compared to oil or coal.
We have limited renewable alternatives. Due to our geography, we are unable to tap geothermal or hydro sources. Our wind speed and tidal differences are also not high enough for significant electricity generation.
Electricity from photo-voltaic technology still costs more than three times the average Singapore electricity pool price.
Beside, even if we covered most of the available rooftop space in Singapore with solar panels, we would be able to meet only about 3-4 per cent of Singapore annual electricity consumption, using todayÂ’s solar technology. -
For those of you who had used solar panels for electricity generation are paying three times the price as compared to using the power supply from the Main – brought to you by Singapore Power.
It may be a good thing that the solar lights at Potong Pasir foot path had been vandalized and now replaced by spot lights.