Singapore’s transition to clean water and renewable energy
Singapore is setting its sights on clean, renewable, and sustainable energy as the cornerstone of its long-term strategy to address water resilience and coastal protection challenges. Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing emphasized that while water has been the nation’s existential challenge for the past 50 years, the focus must now shift to securing clean energy solutions for the next 50 years.
National water agency PUB launched its annual Water Conservation Campaign on March 17th in conjunction with Singapore World Water Day (SWWD) 2026, themed “It’s Everyone’s Business to Make Every Drop Count”. In an efforts to securing a resilient water future for Singapore., this year’s campaign urges households and businesses to contribute to sustaining water conservation. PUB’s Water Conservation Campaign 2026 puts greater emphasis on businesses to manage water demand and contribute to Singapore’s water resilience.
The event to celebrate Singapore World Water Day was held together with partners from across industries and sectors, showcasing a strong collective commitment to Singapore’s water future. This year’s theme, “It’s everyone’s business to make every drop count,” was brought to life by the significant turnout of industry partners and the pledges of commitment to water conservation from organisations and individuals.
Mr Chan Chun Sing, Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence, was welcomed as the Guest of Honour to kick off the celebration alongside partners from the industrial, commercial, and public sectors.
Activities included exhibits on Singapore’s Water Story, interactive displays on water-saving, and hands-on activities such as Water Wally and Sally sand art and colouring sheets, making it a meaningful and enjoyable day for all.
The forum celebrated water as precious resource and emphasized on shared responsibility to conserve water
Speaking at Singapore World Water Day, Mr. Chan highlighted how the country’s water dependency has evolved into an energy dependency. He stressed the need for energy-efficient technologies to process water with minimal electricity consumption. This approach aligns with Singapore’s broader goal of achieving energy sustainability while ensuring water security.
The ongoing global energy challenges, underscored by conflicts like the war in the Middle East, have reinforced the urgency of Singapore’s transition to clean and renewable energy. Mr. Chan noted that this shift is critical not only for water processing but also for bolstering the nation’s overall resilience against future energy uncertainties.
Urban renewal presents additional opportunities to strengthen water resilience. Plans for “Long Island” on Singapore’s east coast aim to integrate coastal protection with reclamation efforts, creating new land for housing and industries while incorporating a reservoir to enhance water storage capacity. Similarly, HDB’s urban renewal projects across the nation offer potential to expand water catchment areas beyond the current two-thirds coverage.
By intertwining clean energy adoption, water efficiency, and coastal adaptation, Singapore is laying the foundation for a sustainable future. As Mr. Chan affirmed, securing clean and renewable energy is not just an environmental imperative but a pathway to solving the nation’s water challenges and ensuring long-term resilience.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) highlighted its water conservation efforts at Singapore World Water Day 2026, showcasing the automated Chinook Wash Shed that reduces aircraft washing water usage by 60% through water treatment and recycling technology. This initiative reflects the innovation and daily efforts of RSAF personnel in contributing to Singapore’s future.
Strengthening Water Efficiency Across Domestic and Non-Domestic Sector
In addition to energy innovation, Singapore is taking proactive steps to manage water demand. Household water consumption averaged 141 liters per capita per day in 2025, reflecting a slight improvement from 2024. However, factors such as hybrid working arrangements, rising temperatures, and smaller household sizes continue to drive upward pressure on demand. To address this, PUB launched the SG Water Saver Programme, targeting 1- to 3-room HDB households with complimentary water-saving measures, including home audits, leak repairs, and efficient fitting replacements. This initiative is expected to benefit 1,500 households in its first two years.
Businesses are also being encouraged to adopt water-efficient practices. With the non-domestic sector projected to account for two-thirds of Singapore’s total water demand by 2065—up from 55% in 2026—PUB is promoting measures such as water-saving technologies, regular usage reviews, and fostering a water-conscious workplace culture. The Water Efficiency Fund, offering up to S$5 million per project, further supports companies in enhancing water efficiency.
Sustaining Water Conservation Efforts
- The Singapore Water Efficiency Event 2026 emphasized the need to strengthen water efficiency in the non-domestic sector, which is projected to account for two-thirds of Singapore’s water demand by 2065. Businesses are encouraged to adopt measures like water-saving technologies, regular water use reviews, and fostering a water-conscious culture, supported by PUB funding programs. Recognized partners and initiatives, including the Singapore Watermark Awards, highlight collective efforts to enhance water resilience across households, workplaces, and the non-domestic sector.
- Household water consumption in 2025 averaged 141 LPCD, slightly down from 2024, but rising temperatures, hybrid work, and smaller households continue to increase demand. To address this, PUB launched the SG Water Saver Programme to support 1,500 1- to 3-room HDB households with water-saving interventions like home audits, leak repairs, and fitting replacements. Sponsorships from AWS Singapore and Alcon Manufacturing highlight collaborative efforts to promote water sustainability beyond operational best practices.
The event was promoted as a special occasion at Singapore World Water Day 2026 by combining learning and fun for families. It was designed to be perfect for curious children and their parents, offering opportunities to explore interactive displays on water conservation and Singapore’s Water Story, pledge commitments to water conservation, and enjoy hands-on activities such as sand art, magnet colouring, and Water Wally & Sally activity sheets. This provided a memorable experience for attendees.
