from the ground Up

by Jessica Cheam, The Straits Times, July 10 2009

Roadshows, exhibitions to engage residents and show ways to save costs

EFFORTS to reduce Singapore’s dependence on energy generated by fossil fuels have been ramped up and aimed at the heartland.
National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan launched a bigger, better version of the Energy Save Programme yesterday.
The scheme, initially launched in December, involves roadshows and exhibitions to engage residents and raise awareness of energy issues within HDB estates.
“Being more efficient with energy keeps Singapore competitive and less dependent on the import of fuel for power generation,” said Mr Mah at the launch of the first roadshow in Tampines. “At a personal level, residents can reduce their energy bills and save money.”
The programme, a joint effort between the HDB, the National Environment Agency and the Energy Market Authority, aims to reduce energy consumption by 30 per cent or more in common areas in HDB estates within five years.
It also hopes to help households reduce their energy usage by 10 per cent.
There is huge potential for reducing energy consumption in the heartland, given that more than 80 per cent of Singaporeans live in HDB estates, racking up an annual power bill of about $1.2 billion.
The scaled-up programme will feature six roadshows and 25 outreach exhibitions a year over the next five years.
Residents can view a mock-up flat at the roadshow called My Energy Save Home, which will feature exhibits to educate residents on reducing energy usage. For example, changing from a one-tick rated refrigerator to a four-tick rated model can deliver annual savings of up to $110.
The tick ratings indicate energy efficiency. Four ticks means an appliance is more energy efficient than one with three ticks.
The programme could reap an estimated annual cost savings amount of $30 million for town councils and $90 million for HDB households islandwide, said Mr Mah.
Pilot tests at HDB estates such as Serangoon North and Wellington Circle last year showed that energy savings of 30 per cent in common areas can be made by using solar panels and energy-efficient light bulbs.
As part of the programme, home owners can exchange conventional light bulbs, even used ones, for new energy-saving light bulbs at the roadshow.
Retailers will also offer energy-efficient appliances at special discounts.
Mr Mah said: “We are talking about many significant savings using today’s technology, using what is already available at the market, using solutions that have already been proven.
“These are the so-called low-hanging fruits of our energy saving effort.”