Inside Singapore’s $735M Hydrogen Project Backed by Billionaire Anthoni Salim

$735M Hydrogen-Ready Power Plant on Jurong Island Marks a Clean Energy Breakthrough

PacificLight Power, a key player in Singapore’s energy sector, has taken major strides toward clean energy with its $735 million hydrogen-ready power plant project. This new facility, slated for completion by 2029, will be located on Jurong Island and represents the largest hydrogen-compatible natural gas power plant in Singapore. The plant is expected to achieve an initial fuel mix of at least 30% hydrogen, with the capability to transition to 100% hydrogen use in the future. Equipped with advanced battery energy storage, it serves as a cutting-edge example of integrating multiple technologies for efficiency and environmental sustainability.

This project aligns with Singapore’s broader goal to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century while ensuring energy reliability. By combining hydrogen power with energy storage, PacificLight Power is aiming to strengthen the energy grid’s resilience and support the country’s decarbonization efforts.

Anthoni Salim’s Strategic Investment

The development of this groundbreaking facility ties back to the vision and investments of Anthoni Salim, Indonesia’s influential billionaire. Salim is prominently associated with First Pacific, a Hong Kong-listed conglomerate that holds a major stake in PacificLight Power. His interests span diverse industries, including telecommunications, food, agriculture, and utilities.

Salim’s backing underlines his commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking initiatives. First Pacific’s involvement in PacificLight’s operations not only emphasizes financial investment but also reflects strategic foresight in advancing cleaner energy solutions for the region. Salim himself has been a vital figure in steering significant environmental and industrial advancements across Southeast Asia.

PacificLight Power’s Technological Advancements

The upcoming power plant represents a mix of innovation and efficiency. Equipped with state-of-the-art H-class Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) technology, the facility will integrate a large-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). This pioneering integration enables the plant to balance electricity supply during fluctuations in demand, enhancing grid stability and operational efficiency.

At the core of the plant’s design is the capability to burn hydrogen—a fuel source hailed for its low to zero carbon emissions. Initially, the power plant will operate using 30% hydrogen mixed with natural gas, transitioning to 100% hydrogen usage once the necessary infrastructure is implemented. This evolution aligns with PacificLight’s goal of supporting Singapore’s net-zero carbon ambitions.

Another feature stands out—potential integration of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technology. This enhances the plant’s adaptability to future advancements in low-carbon energy.

Recent Developments and Energy News

PacificLight is no stranger to innovation. The company, which already supplies close to 10% of Singapore’s electricity, has been pushing boundaries, as evidenced by their “Fast Start” ancillary unit. Slated to commence operations by mid-2025, this 100 MW hydrogen-ready turbine will support the local grid during unexpected electricity supply gaps.

Additionally, PacificLight is exploring renewable energy imports. The company is part of a consortium developing a 600 MW solar project on Indonesia’s Bulan Island. This project, which will use high-voltage subsea cables to transmit energy to Singapore, underscores PacificLight’s commitment to diversifying energy sources beyond traditional fossil fuels.

Why This H2 Project is a Turning Point for Singapore

Singapore faces rising electricity demand, projected to grow annually by at least 3.7% and reach up to 11.8 GW by 2030. With industries reliant on large-scale power and an increasing shift toward electric vehicles, the need for reliable, green energy solutions is more pressing than ever.

The hydrogen-ready plant addresses three core priorities:

1. Energy Security: With its scalable hydrogen capabilities, the plant ensures a future-proof power generation model.
2. Grid Stability: By coupling conventional power generation with battery storage, the facility reduces exposure to volatile grid conditions.
3. Environmental Goals: Hydrogen combustion produces water instead of CO2, offering an eco-friendly alternative essential for reducing emissions.

Singapore plans to launch at least nine hydrogen-ready plants by 2030. PacificLight’s project, scheduled for completion in January 2029, stands as the most efficient among these and will provide 600 MW of capacity—enough to power over 864,000 households.

Timelines for Realization

The timeline for this endeavor comprises several key milestones:

• January 2025: Announcement of the contract award by Singapore’s Energy Market Authority.
• 2026: Environmental assessments and on-ground preparations.
• 2027-2028: Construction of the plant and installation of technology, including the hydrogen-ready turbines and BESS.
• January 2029: Operational launch of the facility.

These phases align with Singapore’s broader decarbonization schedule, aiming to peak carbon emissions by 2028 and transition its power sector to greener alternatives over the coming decades.

How This Technology Can Be Applied Today and Beyond

Hydrogen energy offers significant immediate and long-term uses. Countries globally can leverage hydrogen-ready plants to transition current fossil fuel systems toward flexible and sustainable energy models. The scalability of hydrogen technology allows governments and industries to invest progressively, starting with partial hydrogen use and scaling up as cleaner hydrogen production methods—like electrolysis powered by renewables—become more accessible.

Battery Energy Storage Systems can also support immediate grid challenges by mitigating power outages and balancing energy loads. These systems can complement intermittent renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, which are crucial for reducing over-reliance on traditional fuels.

CCUS technology, while integral to PacificLight’s future plans, is available now for industries to capture and repurpose CO2 emissions effectively. Its integration into power plants could markedly reduce global emissions.