Written reply to PQ on Affordability of Utility Bills for Singaporeans Given Rising Energy Costs and Push towards Green Energy Alternatives

Question:

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry in view of rising energy costs and the national push towards greener energy alternatives, what measures are being taken to ensure the continued affordability of utility bills for Singaporeans. 

Written Answer by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1.                  Singapore depends on energy imports to meet almost all our energy needs. Therefore, our electricity prices generally reflect movements in imported fuel costs. Nonetheless, the Government remains committed to work with Singaporeans to strike the right balance between sustainability, energy security, and affordability.

2.                  Households can reduce their utility bills by switching to more energy-efficient appliances to reduce their energy consumption. Eligible households can use their Climate Vouchers under the enhanced Climate Friendly Household Programme to defray the costs of switching to such appliances. Households can also adopt energy-saving habits such as switching off unused appliances and setting indoor air-conditioning temperature at 25 degrees Celsius.

3.                  To defray the monthly costs of utilities, the majority of Singaporean households living in HDB flats receive U-Save rebates. In 2025, eligible households would have received up to $760 of U-Save rebates. Such measures complement other schemes to support Singaporeans’ daily expenses, like the CDC Vouchers.

4.                  Businesses can also do their part to invest in energy efficiency. The Government will continue providing grants to support businesses to do so.