Global Push to Raise Electricity Use to 35% by 2035 Would Test Singapore's Systems, Minister Says

Published 2026-11-09

A new global target could change how the world uses energy in the coming decade, and it could also present a challenge for Singapore. The goal, discussed at the UN climate talks known as COP, is to increase the share of final energy demand met by electricity to 35 percent by 2035. Today, electricity makes up about 20 percent of final energy demand worldwide.

Final energy demand refers to the energy that people and businesses actually use, such as power for homes, factories, transport and offices. Moving more of this demand onto electricity is seen by many countries as a way to reduce the use of fossil fuels, which release carbon dioxide when burned. Electric vehicles, heat pumps and electric industrial equipment are some of the technologies that could help achieve this shift.

For Singapore, a small island nation with limited land and few natural energy resources, a rapid rise in electricity use would place heavy demands on its power grid. Singapore currently relies mainly on natural gas to generate electricity, and it would need to make sure its systems can handle higher demand while keeping supply stable. Officials have said that the country's energy plans will need to be reviewed in light of the global target, although the details of how this would be done remain unclear.

The target is still a goal rather than a binding rule, and it will require cooperation between governments, companies and investors. For Singapore residents and businesses, the outcome of these discussions may affect future energy prices, the way buildings and vehicles are powered, and the pace at which the country moves towards cleaner energy.

Sources: Bloomberg.com

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