Singapore faces strong competition from its neighbours Japan and South Korea as well as from China, now the world’s top solar panel manufacturer. And with India revving up its support for solar energy, the future of solar power looks bright in Asia.

Goh Chee Kiong, director of clean technology at the government’s Economic Development Board said, “We believe that Asia is going to be a huge market for clean-tech products and solutions, and we want to make sure Singapore is plugged into this entire marketplace."

“The rate of urbanization is fastest in Asia. Therefore, it creates a lot of additional burdens on cities, and the need for green solutions is simply accelerating as a result."

Singapore's clean-technology sector employs nearly 10,000 people, and the aim is to reach 18,000 people by 2015 as the advantages of solar energy become apparent.

John Andersen Jr., R.E.C.’s executive vice president said, “One of our criteria among many reasons for selecting Singapore was the fact there was land available. One of the things we like about Singapore is that it is well regulated, there is transparency and they have a strong focus on clean technology. You don’t get surprises.” With over 140 applications for them to build their solar plant elsewhere, the availability of skilled labor, tax incentives, government support and Singapore’s investment environment clinched the deal.

The government also has created a solar energy research institute and Edgare Kerkwijk, managing director of Asia Green Capital, a renewable energy investment firm based in Singapore remarked, “Singapore has all the support sectors that we need — banks, legal and accounting firms. This is really a hub for Southeast Asia.”

For all its business expertise and the facts about solar energy being the future of our energy needs, the government has been accused of not trying hard enough to reduce the nation’s growing greenhouse gas emissions.

The government, argues though that has now started doing a lot more and wants to implement all types of renewable energies in the country.

“The next phase is making Singapore a living laboratory,” said Mr. Goh. “The idea is for Singapore to be the site of first adoption, the site of demonstration, the site of test-bedding. This is a key selling point.”

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