Singapore explores geothermal energy potential for power generation

SINGAPORE, Oct 26 (Reuters) - Singapore's Energy Market Authority (EMA) said on Tuesday it is exploring the potential of harnessing geothermal energy and if found to be feasible, may use it as a source for power generation.

The EMA is working with Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, various ministries and agencies and the National Climate Change Secretariat to carry out exploratory studies on the country's geothermal potential.

The studies will focus on determining the geothermal resource potential in northern and eastern Singapore, EMA said, adding that these areas have been identified to hold geothermal potential based on their higher surface temperature measurements.

The studies aim to publish preliminary findings by late 2022, the energy regulator added.

If they yield positive results, EMA said it will explore further research to determine the viability and scalability of deploying geothermal systems in Singapore.

Because of its limited size and resources, Singapore imports almost all of its energy needs and has recently been working on plans to increase its renewable imports as well as diversify its energy sources.

Conventional hydrothermal systems, which harness heat from underground resources of hot water or steam may not work in Singapore because of the lack of quality resources at shallower depths, EMA said.

But advances in technology such as advanced geothermal systems have opened up the possibility of geothermal application by harnessing heat from deep, hot, dry rock, with minimal impact to environment and safety, the EMA added. (Reporting by Jessica Jaganathan and Koustav Samanta; Editing by Christian Schmollinger)