Singapore terminal operator PSA is teaming up with local energy regulator in a bid to reduce its overall energy usage and carbon emissions.

The tie-up with the Energy Market Authority (EMA) aims to develop “relevant capabilities within local research entities and enterprises; and catalyse research and development efforts for innovative solutions”.

The initiative is one of two partnerships by the EMA which is backed with SGD 12m ($8.7m) in funding. The second is a tie-up with energy giant Shell to “nurture local energy start-ups and help them translate their solutions for the market”

The EMA and PSA Singapore will jointly launch research and development grant calls in smart grids and energy management systems for the container ports at the Pasir Panjang Terminal.

These efforts aims to integrate renewable energy sources like solar with smart control networks and energy storage solutions.

“Industry partners and the research community can also co-develop and test-bed innovative energy solutions with PSA Singapore, while tapping on PSA’s global networks for access to international markets,” EMA said in a statement.

“Sustainability plays a vital role in the development of our port,” said Ong Kim Pong, regional chief executive Southeast Asia, PSA International.

“As we continue to expand with more automated electric cranes and equipment, power demand forecasts and energy monitoring will become increasingly important.

“Implementing smart grids and developing innovative energy solutions will enable us to better manage and optimise our energy usage, leveraging integrated intelligent real-time communications, Internet of Things, renewable energy storage and digital technologies to obtain substantial energy savings and reduce our carbon footprint.”

EMA chief executive Ngiam Shih Chun commented: “We are partnering both PSA and Shell Singapore to develop our energy sector in the areas of energy storage and in digitalization.

“Energy storage solutions are critical to support our clean energy ambitions by allowing us to better integrate solar energy.

“Digitalisation efforts will also play an important role in making our power systems smarter, more efficient and resilient.”