Floating Solar Farm Planned to Power Singapore Data Centers

Sembcorp Solar Singapore, a subsidiary of Sembcorp Industries, has signed a Renewable Energy Purchase Agreement (REPA) with Malkoha, a subsidiary of Meta Platforms. This agreement focuses on constructing a floating solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Kranji Reservoir in Singapore.

The floating solar farm will have an installed capacity of approximately 150 megawatt-peak (MWp). Under the 25-year agreement, Sembcorp will build, own, and operate the facility. The renewable energy generated will support Meta’s operations in Singapore, including its data center activities.

Floating solar technology allows solar panels to be installed on water bodies. This approach maximizes land use in a country like Singapore, where available land is limited. The system will generate clean energy while utilizing the reservoir’s surface without affecting its primary function of water storage.

Construction of the solar farm is expected to start in the first half of 2027. Once operational, it will contribute to Singapore’s transition to renewable energy by providing a sustainable power source to reduce carbon emissions.

In addition to this large project, Singapore has been working on smaller renewable energy initiatives. For example, pilot projects to install floating solar systems on reservoirs have been conducted to test their feasibility and efficiency. These smaller-scale systems help assess the long-term impact of floating solar technology on water bodies and the environment.

Another ongoing effort is the deployment of rooftop solar panels on public housing estates. This initiative, led by the Housing & Development Board (HDB), aims to generate renewable energy for residential use. The total capacity of solar installations across public housing estates is projected to reach 540 MWp by 2030.

Sembcorp’s Kranji Reservoir project is part of Singapore’s broader effort to integrate renewable energy into its power grid. It reflects the country’s efforts to adopt innovative solutions for clean energy production.