Members of Parliament for Tampines GRC –
Mr Masagos Zulkifli
Mr Sin Boon Ann
Ms Irene Ng
Mr Ong Kian Min

Grassroots Leaders,
Distinguished Guests,
Residents of Tampines,

Good evening. I am very happy to be here for the launch of the Energy SAVE Roadshow@Tampines. This roadshow is the first in a series of roadshows in Singapore to highlight an important programme.

Energy SAVE Programme

As its name suggests, the Energy SAVE Programme is about saving energy. There are many good reasons for doing so. Reducing our energy consumption contributes to global efforts to protect our environment. Being more efficient with energy keeps Singapore competitive and less dependent on the import of fuel for power generation. At a personal level, residents can reduce their energy bills and save money.

The programme is a joint effort of HDB, NEA and EMA. There are two key targets. The first is to reduce energy consumption by 30 per cent or more in the HDB common areas. The second is to help HDB households reduce their energy consumption by 10 per cent.

The Energy SAVE Programme aims to achieve these targets over a 5-year period. The estimated yearly cost savings are $30 million for the Town Councils, and $90 million for HDB households.

Since the launch of the programme in December 2008 we have made some progress.

We have worked with town councils to fit the common areas of two precincts with energy-efficient solutions. They are Serangoon North and Wellington Circle. These demonstration projects have shown that energy savings of 30 per cent for common areas can be achieved.

We have also worked with two four-room households in Serangoon North on energy-efficient fitting and appliances. The results showed that monthly energy consumption was reduced by as much as 35 per cent. In dollar terms, this can amount to savings of up to about $70 a month in utility bills or about $800 saved a year.

With such promising results, we have decided to roll out the Energy SAVE programme in a bigger way to reach out to HDB estates over a 5-year period. This road show @Tampines marks the start of this effort. 

Working Together

How are we going to achieve the 5-year targets in cost savings? It all begins with the Government and residents working together hand-in-hand.

Common areas

First, let me elaborate on how we hope to achieve a 30 per cent energy reduction in the HDB common areas. HDB will share its findings with all Town Councils and encourage them to implement energy efficient solutions for the common areas. This includes switching to the more efficient T5 lamps for common corridors, or amalgam lamps for outdoor lighting.

HDB will conduct further research and development to try out new energy efficient solutions to achieve energy savings beyond 30 per cent. Some examples include LED lighting with motion sensors for common areas, and on-demand lighting for multi-purpose courts.

Homes

To encourage residents to reduce their home energy use, we will bring the energy efficient message and solutions right to your neighbourhood, through roadshows and exhibitions. We have invited retailers to provide energy-efficient appliances at specially discounted rates to residents. We hope that you will find it easier to make the switch and save money.

On average, there will be about 6 major road shows and some 25 outreach exhibitions a year over the next 5 years. The large-scale road shows will be similar to the one organised here today for Tampines.

The smaller-scale outreach exhibitions will be organised in tandem with the various HDB upgrading programmes such as the Lift Upgrading Programme (LUP) and Home Improvement Programme (HIP).

Many families make decisions about appliances and fixtures for their home when they get a new flat. So we will help owners of new flats by providing them with easy access to energy efficient solutions right at their doorstep. We will set up outreach exhibitions at the Building Service Centres (BSCs) in newly completed HDB developments. Retailers, suppliers, building contractors and electrical subcontractors will be invited to offer energy efficient solutions to residents at special prices.

HDB will also step up its R&D efforts by testing more energy efficient solutions to help residents achieve even greater energy savings at home.

First Roadshow@Tampines and Benefits to Residents

At this evening’s roadshow, you will see a mock-up flat that showcases various energy saving tips and solutions. This concept flat, called "My Energy SAVE Home," demonstrates how residents can reduce energy consumption in their homes.

You will also be able to get a copy of "The Resident’s Green Guide to Saving Electricity," put together by HDB, NEA and EMA. The booklet highlights energy saving tips and measures for your homes. I encourage you to look through this
booklet and share these tips with your family, neighbours, and friends.

Residents can also look forward to three other activities at this roadshow. Firstly, there is an Energy SAVE Exchange Programme. You can bring in your conventional light bulbs, even used ones, and exchange them for brand new energy-saving light bulbs. Secondly, there is an Energy SAVE Trade-in Programme where you can trade in your old air-conditioners or refrigerators for new energy-saving ones at special prices. And finally, we have Energy SAVE themed activities and games throughout the entire road show.

We have invited a major retailer and your local neighbourhood retailers to provide discounts and special offers on energy efficient appliances. Switching to new appliances and energy fixtures may come with an initial investment, but the special discounts at this roadshow and the energy savings can help you save in the longer term.

So do take advantage of all these special offers at this first ever Energy SAVE Roadshow@Tampines. You may be pleasantly surprised when you receive your next electrical bill.

Conclusion

Saving energy begins with each and every one of us. Together, we can not only reap the benefits of reduced energy cost, but also ensure that Singapore will be continue to be clean, green, and sustainable.

On this note, I am happy to launch the Energy SAVE Roadshow@Tampines.