Media Release

Singapore’s First Centralised Power Plant Simulator & Structured Genco Training Programme

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1. Workforce training on operations for Singapore’s power generation companies (Gencos) will now be centralised and standardised with the launch of Singapore’s first Centralised Power Plant Simulator (CPPS).

2. Developed by the Singapore Institute of Power and Gas (SIPG) – the Centralised Training Institute for Power and Gas sectors – in partnership with the Energy Market Authority (EMA) and Gencos, the CPPS courses mark the first time that Gencos operating in a competitive environment have come together to collectively design and level training standards for the sector. This ensures a consistent level of training, which plays a critical role in ensuring a secure and stable supply of electricity for Singapore.

3. Six courses integrated with CPPS training have been co-developed by SIPG and Gencos comprising Keppel Merlimau Cogen O&M, PacificLight Power, Sembcorp Cogen, Senoko Energy, Tuas Power and YTL PowerSeraya. Spanning basic to advanced levels, the training programme establishes a consistent standard for skills training, such as in power plant operations, process controls, and management of common equipment alarms and malfunctions in a controlled environment separate from actual day-to-day plant operations, ensuring the safety of participants as well as plant and system reliability.

4. A simulated environment also ensures that the workforce could be trained in scenarios which are rare in the power sector but can lead to plant shutdowns. A unique feature of the CPPS courses is that various Gencos have committed to provide trainers who are industry practitioners, who will be able to impart valuable knowledge and skills to the participants.

5. As part of the launch of the CPPS, SIPG has introduced a structured training programme consisting of two new Power Generation Certificate Programmes with certificates recognised by all Gencos. Certificates will be issued upon the completion of the CPPS courses, as well as other Power Generation courses offered by SIPG.

6. Minister of State (MOS) for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling officiated the launch of the CPPS at SIPG today. In her opening speech, MOS Low commended key industry partners for the strong collaboration to bolster the competency of its workforce.

7. Mr Chia Soo Ping, Principal of SIPG, said: “As the energy landscape continues its dynamic and transformative journey, SIPG is focused on cultivating competencies and technological know-how needed for the industry to keep pace with change. The Gencos’ collaborative and structured approach promotes sharing and adoption of best practices. The Centralised Power Plant Simulator training reaps efficiencies and optimises the pooling of resources and expertise across all Gencos in Singapore to strengthen the overall resilience of the workforce for the energy sector.”

8. On the launch of the CPPS, Ms Violet Chen, EMA’s Industry Ecosystem Development Director, said: “We are heartened by the collective effort of SIPG and Gencos to strengthen the training of its workforce. The Power sector will continue to play a critical role in keeping the lights on and gas flowing for Singapore as we step up efforts to advance Singapore’s energy transition towards a sustainable future.”