Searchhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/search?tag=-energysolutions--sustainability--datacentresSearch Average-Electricity-Consumption--kWh-_Jun-23-to-May-24.xlsxhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/spgroup/docs/our-services/utilities/tariff-information/Average-Electricity-Consumption--kWh-_Jun-23-to-May-24.xlsx Consumption_Elect Average consumption of Electricity (kWh) Premises Types Jun-23 Jul-23 Aug-23 Sep-23 Oct-23 Nov-23 Dec-23 Jan-24 Feb-24 Mar-24 Apr-24 May-24 HDB 1-Room 152 147 145 143 146 144 135 126 126 132 150 152 HDB 2-Room 202 190 190 189 190 188 176 164 167 173 199 199 HDB 3-Room 288 271 272 269 274 269 247 236 241 250 292 285 HDB 4-Room 391 371 371 367 374 370 342 321 330 342 398 396 HDB 5-Room 456 437 434 427 437 436 401 367 381 399 463 466 HDB Executive 561 531 536 528 541 530 478 456 474 489 575 568 Apartment 585 546 514 515 537 541 483 430 435 486 578 573 Terrace 902 868 866 859 890 881 804 740 794 821 957 900 Semi-Detached 1,233 1,159 1,134 1,150 1,187 1,174 1,065 1,019 1,038 1,109 1,254 1,224 Bungalow 2,482 2,320 2,219 2,298 2,308 2,358 2,075 2,106 1,951 2,146 2,432 2,360 Note: The figures exclude electricity consumption for PAYU customers and customers who are not purchasing electricity at the regulated tariff. [20140211] The Straits Times - Impacting People's Liveshttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/spgroup/wcm/connect/spgrp/251b64a6-0ea5-47f3-90cf-59688be25366/%5B20140211%5D+The+Straits+Times+-+Impacting+People's+Lives.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID= Impacting people’s lives Singapore Power engineer Thiruchelvam Ranjan loves what he does because the outcome is tangible and necessary At a glance n n n About 2,400 technical professionals required by 2020. Electricity sales are expected to grow by more than 30 per cent over the next decade. Less than 1 minute per customer a year is the average interruption time, making Singapore’s electricity grid one of the most reliable in the world. by wong sher maine In hIs six years with singapore Power (sP), Mr Thiruchelvam Ranjan has held three job portfolios. he has also added a significant achievement to his resumé — he was part of a team that set up a substation — and is being groomed for leadership. The sP scholar and principal engineer says: “I underwent a rigorous graduate development programme during which I was posted to various departments. Besides giving me an understanding of many aspects of the organisation, these rotations also helped me to feel the pulse on the ground, understand the culture of the organisation, and build a strong social network.” The 32-year-old became interested in the power sector during his final year at the national University of singapore, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering, specialising in electrical engineering. he says: “Power is an important and necessary part of everyone’s lives. singapore’s economy and all modern day activities are enabled by electricity, and our networks are amongst the most reliable worldwide.” his career choice was partly inspired by his engineer father. “My father made me realise the impact engineers make on people’s lives,” says Mr Ranjan. “Also, as a young child I would often see him take things apart and put them back together. In today’s world where it’s easier to replace than repair, he made me appreciate and take good care of what I had.” his mother also played a crucial role in shaping who he is today. “Mum was a teacher, and she taught me to question everything. This is something which I constantly apply when I was a student and now as an engineer.” Under sP’s graduate development programme, he has enjoyed a diverse range of jobs. he started off as a network management engineer helping to ensure that the network delivering power to customers is in tip-top condition. Then, in risk management, he learnt to effectively manage sP’s risk exposures. he is currently a project engineer within sP PowerGrid’s network development division where he works on developing singapore’s electricity network, installing and renewing network infrastructure to meet the increasing power demands and connecting new customers to the grid. One of his professional highlights was when he helped to set up the 66kV Rangoon substation, to meet growing demand and strengthen the power network in the central part of singapore including areas like Toa Payoh and Bishan. “We conduct voltage tests, equipment My colleagues comprise a mixture of industry veterans and young talents, but they all have one thing in common — a deep rooted sense of pride in what they do. They have inspired me to always give my best at work, because what I do impacts lives. — Mr Thiruchelvam Ranjan (right), principal engineer, Singapore Power functionality and safety checks before the substation goes live. Each successfully commissioned project adds to the reliability of singapore’s power network, and I am proud to have contributed to this effort.” he adds: “As an sP engineer, no two work days are identical. The challenges I have had to handle include managing network projects, addressing customers’ concerns and responding to power outages.” he was selected to attend the 2013 Young LEADERs! programme conducted by Business Leadership Centre of the Temasek Management services Group, where he honed his strategic thinking and business leadership skills. he is now in charge of organising sP Family Day 2014. he says: “This is a massive event with a lot of logistical and manpower planning involved. I look forward to the challenge of providing an enjoyable and memorable experience for 10,000 staff and their loved ones.” his experience and accomplishments at sP stand him in good stead for a Professional Engineer certification, which is the profession’s highest standard of competence. Mr Ranjan says: “The experience and knowledge that I have gained from working in sP will be instrumental towards achieving this goal.” he loves what he does because the outcome is tangible and necessary. “Every day, the work we do and projects we handle help to grow singapore’s network and connect customers to the grid, powering their activities at home, work and play. In many ways, PhoTo: Wee TY what we do at sP is an integral part of nation building and enhancing lives.” Mr Ranjan is in good company. “My colleagues comprise a mixture of industry veterans and young talents, but they all have one thing in common — a deep rooted sense of pride in what they do. They have inspired me to always give my best at work, because what I do impacts lives.” Diverse career track Singapore Power’s Graduate Development Programme is a talent development scheme where staff benefits from job rotations to better understand the organisation at a macro and micro level. They also benefit from leadership development programmes, and are given opportunities to maximise their potential via stretch assignments. PhoTo: Wee TY Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedures (wef 1 Apr 2023).pdfhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/jcr:35028c51-f044-46f0-9ea6-6b2d734f1fc0/Town%20Gas%20Connection%20Policy%20and%20Procedures%20(wef%201%20Apr%202023).pdf Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedures Updated 1 April 24 Table of Contents 1. General Information ..................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Purpose of this Document ................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Singapore Gas Transportation System ............................................................................... 1 1.3 Definitions .............................................................................................................................. 2 1.4 Codes of Practices and Regulatory Requirements ........................................................... 3 1.5 Submission of Application ................................................................................................... 3 2. Procedures for Gas Connection and Gas Admittance ............................................................. 4 2.1 Apply for Gas Connection ................................................................................................... 4 2.2 Make Payment ....................................................................................................................... 4 2.3 Engage DR for Consumer’s Gas Installation ....................................................................... 5 2.4 Apply for Gas Admittance ................................................................................................... 5 2.5 Apply to Retailer for Supply and Gas Turn On .................................................................. 6 3. Guidelines for Other Applications .............................................................................................. 7 3.1 Apply for Replacement, Addition & Alteration Works ...................................................... 7 3.2 Apply for Disconnection ...................................................................................................... 7 3.3 Apply for Re-connection ...................................................................................................... 7 3.4 Other Applications ................................................................................................................ 7 4. Charges .......................................................................................................................................... 8 4.1 Connection Policy ................................................................................................................. 8 4.2 Connection Charge .............................................................................................................. 8 5. Unauthorised Connection and Supply of Gas ........................................................................... 9 6. Pressure Regulation for Internal Gas Pipeline ............................................................................ 9 7. Appendices ................................................................................................................................. 10 Appendix 1 – Demarcation of Responsibility ............................................................................... 10 Appendix 2 – Town Gas Distribution Connection Flow Chart ................................................... 11 Appendix 3 – Town Gas Connection Application Forms .......................................................... 13 Appendix 4 – Reference Rates ..................................................................................................... 14 Appendix 5 – Deductible Component for Town Gas Distribution Connection ...................... 15 Appendix 6 – Last Mile Standard Connection Charge ............................................................... 17 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 1 1. General Information 1.1 Purpose of this Document PowerGas is licensed by the Energy Market Authority (“Authority”) to be the Gas Transporter (“Transporter”) which owns, operates, and maintains the piped gas network in Singapore. SP PowerGrid (“SPPG”) is licensed by the Authority to be the Gas Transporter Agent to operate and maintain the piped gas network in Singapore on behalf of PowerGas. SPPG’s gas business is to plan, design, operate and maintain gas network assets in a manner that supports the delivery of safe, reliable, efficient and quality services to customers. Under the Gas Transporter License, the Gas Transporter has to develop separate fees and charges for separate gas transportation services such as connection services and transportation services. This document sets out the connection policy and procedure for Town Gas supply. 1.2 Singapore Gas Transportation System PowerGas owns an extensive gas transmission and distribution network throughout Singapore. The network is generally buried underground and transports natural gas to the western and northern parts of Singapore, and town gas to the whole of Singapore. The gas assets comprise the transmission network (operating at higher pressures), which forms the main reticulation backbone and the distribution network (operating at lower pressures). • Town gas is manufactured in Senoko Gasworks and delivered to approximately 900,000 customers in Singapore. The customers are made up of industrial, commercial and residential gas users. Residential customers consist mainly of gas users from HDB, condominiums and landed premises. The town gas transmission network operates at 3 barg whereas the distribution network operates at pressure regimes ranging from 1 kPa to 50 kPa. • Natural gas is supplied to about 200 customers and is imported from four sources (two submarine pipelines from Indonesia, one submarine pipeline from Malaysia and internationally through the Liquefied Natural Gas Terminal). Under the Gas Network Code, Gas Shippers/Retailers represent the customers that are connected to the natural gas networks. These natural gas customers are typically commercial or industrial and include all power stations. The natural gas transmission network operates mainly at two pressure regimes, 28 barg and 40 barg, and the distribution network operates at pressure regimes ranging from 3 barg to 6 barg. 1 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 2 1.3 Definitions The following terms shall have the following meanings when used in this document. “Authority” means the Energy Market Authority of Singapore established under the Energy Market Authority of Singapore Act (Cap.92B); “Gas Transporter” or “Transporter” means a representative holding a gas transporter’s license; “Gas Retailer” or “Retailer” means a person who supplies gas to Retail Customers and who holds a Retailer’s license; “Gas Shipper” or “Shipper” means a person holding a gas shipper’s license; “Gas Network Code” refers to the Gas Network Code issued by the Authority, setting out common terms and conditions between the Gas Transporter and Shippers who engage the Gas Transporter to transport natural gas though the gas pipeline network. “DR” known as designated representative means a professional engineer or a licensed gas service worker appointed by the developer or a responsible person for the premises; “PE” known as professional engineer means any person who is registered as a professional engineer in the mechanical engineering discipline under the Professional Engineers Act (Cap. 253); “LGSW” known as licensed gas service worker” means a person who is licensed under section 12 (3) of the Gas Act (Chapter 116A); “gas service work” means any work carried out on any gas installation or gas appliance, in whole or in part, including any design, construction, installation, commissioning, erection, testing, repair, addition, alteration or maintenance work; “gas service isolation valve (“GSIV”)” means a valve, located at or near the boundary line of any property or the apron of any building, used by a gas transporter to isolate the supply of gas to that property or building; “gas service pipe” means a pipe or any part thereof, other than a gas main, used for the purpose of conveying gas from a gas main to a gas service isolation valve, and includes any pipe owned by, or under the management or control of, a gas transporter which is used for the purpose of conveying gas from the gas service isolation valve to the meter at a consumer’s premises as defined in the Gas Act (Chapter 116A); “gas fitting” includes any pipe, valve, meter, regulator or other device for the control, measurement and use of gas as defined in the Gas Act (Chapter 116A); 2 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 3 “Gas installation” means a discrete grouping of gas fittings linking a gas service pipe to a gas appliance as defined in the Gas Act (Chapter 116A); “Gas Meter Control Valve” means a valve at the inlet of any meter used for the purpose of turning on or off a supply of gas through such meter to any gas installation as defined in the Gas (Supply) Regulations; “Meter Installation” means any meter and its associated equipment and installation including associated pipework, filter, valve, pressure regulating equipment, seal, housing, mounting, telemetry equipment, gas chromatograph and flow computer 1.4 Codes of Practices and Regulatory Requirements This connection procedure shall be read in conjunction with the provisions in the Gas Act, Gas (Supply) Regulations, Gas (Metering) Regulations, Gas Supply Code, Gas Metering Code, Singapore Standard, SS608 – Code of Practice for Gas Installation and relevant Retailer’s Handbook of Gas Supply, where applicable. The demarcation of responsibility from the gas service pipe to the gas installation is provided in Appendix 1 for reference purpose. 1.5 Submission of Application Please submit all connection enquiries, applications for gas connection and admittance request via the Gas Retailer on SP Group’s eBusiness Portal (“Portal”): https://ebiz.spgroup.com.sg/index.html For all other matters, please submit your request to: gasenquiry@spgroup.com.sg 3 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 4 2. Procedures for Gas Connection and Gas Admittance Gas user, the applicant for gas supply, are advised to apply through City Energy, the Town Gas Retailer, for connection to the gas main network. The Retailer will liaise with the Transporter on behalf of the applicant for gas connection and admittance. The key steps for gas connection and gas admittance are outlined below. The detailed process flow chart and Town Gas Connection application forms can be found in Appendix 2 and Appendix 3 respectively. Apply for Gas Connection Make Payment Engage DR Apply for Gas Admittance Apply to Retailer for Gas Supply and Turn On 2.1 Apply for Gas Connection To apply for a town gas connection, the Retailer shall submit the following documents and information through the Portal: • Endorsed Form GD1 - “Application for Gas Distribution Connection”; & • Location / site plan showing the project site and proposed connection point(s) endorsed by the responsible person or applicant The Transporter shall notify the Retailer on the outcome of the application within 14 days from the date of receipt of the application. If the application is successful, the connection charge will also be made known to the Retailer. 2.2 Make Payment The Retailer shall confirm the project by making payment for the connection charge. The Transporter shall commence work upon receipt of the connection charge payment from the Retailer. The Transporter shall commence permit application, procurement and construction works to extend the gas pipeline up to and including the GSIV. Typically, a lead time of 6 to 8 weeks is required to apply for and obtain services’ plans and opening permit from the relevant authorities / agencies before excavation, pipe laying and connection works can commence. 4 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure 2.3 Engage DR for Consumer’s Gas Installation Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 5 The applicant shall engage a PE or a LGSW, as the case may require, as the DR for the project. The Retailer and the DR shall liaise with the Transporter on the connection point at the property boundary, the work schedule, and other related matters throughout the entire project until commissioning. The DR is responsible for the design, procurement and construction of the Gas Installation from the GSIV to the appliance/equipment, excluding the Meter Installation, in accordance to the Gas Act and its subsidiary legislations and applicable Code(s). 2.4 Apply for Gas Admittance The DR shall certify completion and successful testing of the Gas Installation. When the Gas Installation is ready to receive gas, the DR/applicant shall apply, through the Retailer, to the Transporter to connect and admit gas into the Gas Installation up to, but excluding, the Meter Installation by submitting the following forms: • Form GD2 - “Application for Admittance of Gas”; The DR shall conduct the necessary proof test and submit the completed Form GD3 “Certificate of Proof Test” and request for interim admittance of gas immediately prior to the Transporter connecting the Gas Installation to the gas pipeline network and admits gas into the Gas Installation up to, but excluding, the Meter Installation. Upon successful interim admittance of gas, the Transporter shall issue the “Statement of Interim Admittance of Gas”. Thereafter, the DR shall proceed to purge and commission the Gas Installation up to, but excluding, the Meter Installation. The Transporter shall issue the “Statement of Admittance of Gas” upon certification by the DR of successful purging and commissioning of the Gas Installation up to the Meter Installation. 5 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure 2.5 Apply to Retailer for Supply and Gas Turn On Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 6 The application for gas supply and turn-on shall be made to the Retailer in the case of Town Gas Connection. The Retailer shall carry out gas turn-on from the Meter Installation up to the appliances/equipment. The applicant is advised to refer to the Retailer’s "Handbook for Gas Supply" for the latest procedures. A summary of the procedures is shown below. • The DR shall: o certify completion and successful testing of the Consumer’s Internal Pipe; and o apply to the Retailer for connection and gas turn-on up to the appliances/equipment when the Consumer’s Internal Pipe is ready to receive gas. • The Retailer shall: o ensure appropriate tests, before and after the installation of the meter, are performed on the gas installation from and including the meter to the gas appliance before the as supply is turned on at the relevant Gas Meter Control Valve; o arrange for the connection of the Consumer’s Internal Pipe to the outlet of the Meter Installation thereafter; and o issue the “Statement of Turn-on of gas” to the applicant. 6 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure 3. Guidelines for Other Applications 3.1 Apply for Replacement, Addition & Alteration Works Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 7 Any application for replacement of, addition or alteration to, the gas installation or gas fitting located from the gas service isolation valve to (and including) the meter installation or after the meter installation shall be made by the applicant, through the Retailer to the Transporter’s email address stated in Section 1.5. 3.2 Apply for Disconnection An application to disconnect a gas installation or gas fitting from a gas pipeline network shall be made by the responsible person to the Transporter in the following instances: • When the gas supply to the premises has been discontinued; or • When the supply of gas is no longer required; or • When the premises are undergoing renovation or demolition and gas supply has to be disconnected for safety reasons. Any application for the disconnection of the gas installation or gas fitting shall be made to the Transporter’s email address in Section 1.5. 3.3 Apply for Re-connection Any application for the re-connection of the gas installation or gas fitting shall be made to the Transporter only when the applicant has rectified the defects on the gas installation/fitting. The application should be made through the Retailer via the Transporter’s Portal. The Transporter shall respond to the Retailer on the outcome of the application within 14 days from the date of receipt of the application. If the application is successful, the connection charge will be provided to the Retailer. 3.4 Other Applications The applicant is advised to consult with the Transporter for gas connections not covered in the procedures stated in this connection policy. The applicant shall send their request to the Transporter’s email address stated in Section 1.5. 7 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 8 4. Charges 4.1 Connection Policy The cost to connect a customer’s gas installation or gas fitting to the Transporter’s gas pipeline network varies from case-to-case, due to the proximity of the customer’s location and the cost of the materials and services required for the gas connection. Where possible, the Transporter will envisage to propose the most cost-effective connection to the applicant. 4.2 Connection Charge The connection charge payable for all gas connection applications is the sum of the connection cost less the deductible cost, subject to a minimum connection charge of zero. The description of each of the cost components are shown below. (1) Connection cost All costs related to the provision of gas connection from the Transporter’s gas pipeline network to the GSIV. (2) Deductible cost The Transporter’s investment value based on the committed gas demand from the applicant for the new gas connection. The investment value is derived based on the net present value of the 5-Year revenue of the average consumption for each consumption category (see Appendix 5). In addition, a Last Mile Standard Connection Charge (“LMSCC”) will be levied to recover the cost of “last mile” connection of the gas installation to the GSIV from the applicant. Details can be found in Appendix 6. The town gas distribution connection deductible costs, LMSCC, standard connection charge for landed residential property and unit rates shall be reviewed and adjusted when deemed necessary by the Transporter. The Transporter reserves the right to review the connection charge paid for any new connection and seek reimbursement for the first 5 years under-recovered revenue from the Retailer if the actual gas consumption after 5 years of operation is more than 10% below the projected gas demand declared during application. 8 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 9 5. Unauthorised Connection and Supply of Gas In accordance to the Gas Act, any person who: • lays or causes to be laid gas pipe or fitting to connect to the gas network belonging to or managed by the Transporter without consent of the Transporter; • fraudulently abstracts, uses or consumes the supply of gas; • tempers any gas meter shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment, or both. The Transporter may disconnect the premises of, or the gas retailer may discontinue supply of gas to the premises of, the person. 6. Pressure Regulation for Internal Gas Pipeline With effect from 1 April 2020, when designing the internal pipe for any premise supplied with TG at low pressure, the DR shall ensure that the pressure supplied to any gas appliance shall not exceed 31 mbarg. An accessible pressure measurement test point shall also be provided at the top of every gas riser. 9 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 10 7. Appendices Appendix 1 – Demarcation of Responsibility 10 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Appendix 2 – Town Gas Distribution Connection Flow Chart Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 11 Start Applicant/Responsible person applies for connection through Retailer via e-Business portal • Endorsed Form GD1 • Connection Point Plan Transporter notifies Retailer within 14 days on the connection charge and project lead time. Has Retailer paid connection charge? Yes No Works shall not commence. If connection quotation expires, Applicant/ Responsible person to apply for connection again. Project confirmed • Transporter commences permit application, procurement and construction • Retailer liaises with consumer/DR and Transporter on the project • DR designs and constructs gas installation from GSIV to the appliance/equipment, excluding the Meter Installation. a 11 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 12 Appendix 2 – Town Gas Distribution Connection Flow Chart (Con’t) a Gas Installation up to the Meter Installation and the site ready to receive gas DR applies for gas admittance • Form GD2 DR conducts proof test immediately prior to gas admittance • Form GD3 Transporter issues “Statement of Interim Admittance of Gas” and DR proceeds to purge and commission up to the Meter Installation Transporter issues “Statement of Admittance of Gas” End (Refer to Retailer’s “Handbook on Gas Supply” for Application for supply and Gas Turn-on.) 12 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Appendix 3 – Town Gas Connection Application Forms Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 13 S/No. Form No. Description 1 GD1 Application for Gas Distribution Connection 2 GD2 Application for Admittance of Gas 3 GD3 Certificate of Proof Test 4 GD4 Authorisation to Turn on Gas Meter Control Valve 13 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 14 Appendix 4 – Reference Rates This sets out a non-exhaustive list of the main cost drivers and the corresponding unit rates used in the estimation of the capital investment for a new distribution pipeline. For the avoidance of doubt, the information set out here is provided solely for reference only and will be subject to changes in actual contract rates. S/No. Description Size (mm) Unit Rate ($) excl. GST Unit Rate ($) incl. 9% GST 1 Supply and Laying of PE pipes and fittings ($/m) 315 750 818 2 Connection to existing pipes ($/job) 315 12,900 14,061 3 Installation of Valve ($/job) 300 7,800 8,502 4 Installation of regulator ($/pc) 42,500 46,325 5 Reinstatement of rigid pavement / concrete panel ($/m 2 ) 480 524 6 Milling and Patching of road (min 250m 2 ) ($/m 2 ) 31 34 Note: The amount of LTA road opening charges may vary due to the scope of the distribution project. For better clarity, please refer to LTA’s website for the charging methodology for LTA road opening charges. 14 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 15 Appendix 5 – Deductible Component for Town Gas Distribution Connection (wef 1 Apr 24) 1) For General, Bulk A and Bulk B Consumers c = Consumption per Annum General Bulk A Bulk B (kWh) Tariff ($) Tariff ($) Tariff ($) c ≤ 50,000 - - - 50,000 < c ≤ 75,000 20,000 20,000 - 75,000 < c ≤ 100,000 25,000 25,000 - 100,000 < c ≤ 125,000 35,000 30,000 - 125,000 < c ≤ 150,000 45,000 40,000 - 150,000 < c ≤ 175,000 50,000 45,000 - 175,000 < c ≤ 200,000 60,000 55,000 - 200,000 < c ≤ 250,000 70,000 65,000 - 250,000 < c ≤ 300,000 85,000 80,000 - 300,000 < c ≤ 350,000 100,000 90,000 - 350,000 < c ≤ 400,000 120,000 105,000 - 400,000 < c ≤ 450,000 135,000 120,000 - 450,000 < c ≤ 500,000 150,000 135,000 - 500,000 < c ≤ 600,000 170,000 155,000 - 600,000 < c ≤ 700,000 205,000 - 175,000 700,000 < c ≤ 1,000,000 265,000 - 225,000 1,000,000 < c ≤ 1,500,000 390,000 - 335,000 1,500,000 < c ≤ 2,000,000 550,000 - 465,000 Beyond 2,000,000 625,000 - 530,000 15 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 16 2) For Bulk E consumers c = Consumption per Annum (kWh) Bulk E Tariff ($) c ≥ 6,000,000 960,000 16 Town Gas Connection Policy and Procedure Updated on: 1 Apr 24 Page 17 Appendix 6 – Last Mile Standard Connection Charge Pipe diameter (d) LMSCC ($) Excl. GST LMSCC ($) incl. 9% GST 1 d < 100mm 500 545 2 200mm > d ≥ 100mm 800 872 3 300mm > d ≥ 200mm 2,000 2,180 4 d ≥ 300mm 3,200 3,488 Note: • Standard connection charge of $3,500 ($3,815 incl. 9% GST) is only applicable for connection in front of a private landed residential property where the gas main is in LTA road reserve in front of the house. Connection to landed property shall be from the front of the house only. • Figures may not reflect the full GST effect due to rounding. 17 Reliabilityhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/about-us/media-resources/energy-hub/reliability/helping-consumers-change-and-save SP Energy HubAnnual ReportReliabilitySustainabilityInnovation Helping Consumers Change and Save RELIABILITY The electricity market is opening up to all residential customers in 2018. They can choose the electricity provider and price plan that best suit their lifestyle and needs. SP Group will help them make the switch seamlessly. Customers can also choose to remain with SP Group. They can buy electricity from the Wholesale Electricity Market or continue at the regulated tariff. Buying from the wholesale market is a new option where customers pay the prevailing electricity market prices based on demand and supply. Regardless of their choice, SP Group will help customers change and save. They can connect with us through our phone hotline, website, customer service centres or chat ‘live’ with our agents on the SP Utilities mobile application. Since 2001, SP Group has been supporting the Energy Market Authority (EMA) in progressively opening the retail electricity market to competition. We will continue to operate the national power grid so consumers can enjoy the same reliable and efficient electricity supply, regardless of their choice of retailer. — 30 May 2018 Watch this video to find out more about the transmission cable tunnel project. TAGS SERVICEOPEN ELECTRICITY MARKET YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED TO READ Ground feedback, digital tools: How she helps 8,000 workers end their day safely Faster repairs, fewer disruptions: Meet the innovative teams using smart tech to keep your piped gas supply flowing Engineer, 27, shares how she is undaunted by male-dominated energy industry & climbs the ranks Category: Reliability Safety Performance Criteria Policy.pdfhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/jcr:357660c9-748b-4390-a5fe-4d1ffa7016a4/Safety%20Performance%20Criteria%20Policy.pdf SAFETY PERFORMANCE CRITERIA Introduction 1. With effect from 1 April 2022, all tenders called by Singapore Power Limited and its Singapore incorporated subsidiaries (SP Group) will include a tender evaluation criteria that takes into account the participating tenderer’s safety performance in their contracts with SP Group. With effect from 1 April 2023, this criteria is extended to subcontractors with LTI. 2. This is in line with SP Group’s core value that safety is our highest priority and all our suppliers and contractors must continuously adopt good safety practices and prevent accidents from occurring. Tender Evaluation Criteria 3. All open and closed tenders published on or after 1 April 2022 by SP Group shall include the new Safety Performance criteria as part of its tender evaluation criteria. 4. The Safety Performance criteria shall be a 1 st level evaluation criteria together with Price and/or Quality and shall be of a overall weightage of not less than 10% of the total evaluation score. 5. For tenders that is evaluated based solely on lowest compliant priced tender with no requirement to assess quality (e.g supply of standard items such as HP toner cartridges), the following evaluation method shall apply: Total Evaluation Score (100%) = Safety Performance (10%) + Price (90%) 6. For tenders that is evaluated based on Price and Quality factors, the following evaluation method shall apply: Total Evaluation Score (100%) = Safety Performance (10%) + Price (X%) + Quality (Y%) Where X + Y = 90% 7. For the avoidance of doubt, other safety related evaluation criteria such as the proposed safety measures to be taken for the tendered project or the tenderer’s past safety awards shall be accounted separately under the Quality score. Safety Performance 8. Safety Performance of tenderers shall be assessed by taking into account the occurrence of any Loss Time Injury (LTI) incidents in the past 2 years prior to tender closing date. In the event of the occurrence of any incidents that results in fatality or serious injury in the past 1 year prior to the tender closing date, the bid submitted by the tenderer may be rejected by SP Group. For the avoidance of doubt only incidents occurring on or after 1 April 2022 will be considered. 9. Loss Time Injury incidents for the purpose of this Safety Performance criteria refers to any incidents where: a. It is a work-related injury occurs which results in lost work time of one work day or more; b. The incident occurred while the tenderer was carrying out works under a contract with SP Group; and c. The incident occurred on or after 1 April 2022. 10. Any incidents that occur in the course of the Tenderer’s work in contracts with other parties are not accounted under this criteria’s scoring but may considered in the final decision for award. Searchhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/search?tag=open-electricity-market Search Open Electricity Markethttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/our-services/utilities/open-electricity-market OverviewUtilities Quick Guide ResidentialUtilities Quick Guide CommercialGo green, go paperlessTariff informationOpen Electricity MarketFAQsForm & ResourcesChat with Us Open Electricity Market The Open Electricity Market is an initiative by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) that allows you to enjoy more choices and flexibility when buying electricity. You can benefit from competitive pricing and innovative offers from retailers. With the Open Electricity Market, you have the choice of buying electricity from: SP Group at the regulated tariff (no action is required if you choose this option); or An electricity retailer at a price plan that best meets your needs; or The wholesale electricity market at half-hourly wholesale electricity prices through SP Group. Regardless of who you buy your electricity from, your electricity supply will stay the same. This is because SP Group will continue to operate the national power grid and deliver electricity to everyone. Working with Retailers Our goal is to make processes convenient and efficient for all customers. SP will facilitate customer transfers between retailers and offer retailers one-stop utilities billing and call centre services. As the Market Support Services Licensee, SP continues to provide services such as: Opening of utilities account Meter reading Meter data management Billing services If your Retailer Exits the Market You will be transferred to buy electricity from SP Group as a last resort. Households and small businesses with an average monthly consumption of less than 4MWh will buy electricity at the regulated tariff rate. Larger businesses with an average monthly consumption of at least 4MWh will buy electricity at the wholesale electricity price. There will be no disruption to your electricity supply. You will continue to receive your electricity supply through the national power grid that is operated by SP Group. Making the Switch to a Retailer Residential Consumers Business Consumers For more information on Open Electricity Market Visit www.openelectricitymarket.com.sg Have a business enquiry? Interested to find out more how our integrated services can serve your business needs? Drop us an online enquiry, and our qualified professionals will reach out to you. Contact Us The Sunday Times - Open Electricity Market - How to save energy and moneyhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/jcr:4b271c9a-e89d-4c36-ae95-3f38f985c89c B14 | The Sunday Times | Sunday, September 1, 2019 Me & My Property Before investing in properties, entrepreneur Gerald Tan researches extensively such as viewing listings online. B11 The Energy Market Authority stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 electricity retailers pay a rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. ST FILE PHOTO Open electricity market: How to save energy and money About 34% of household consumers made switch, most on 24-month standard price plan Lorna Tan Invest Editor The nationwide roll-out of the Open Electricity Market (OEM) has been completed so consumers have the power to choose who to buy electricity from and potentially lower their power bills. The roll-out started with a soft launch to households and businesses in Jurong in April last year and ended with the last zone in May, with around 1.6 million accounts or households connected. You would have received a notification package and a booklet on how to switch out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 retailers. The option to choose from these electricity retailers comes with benefits like competitive pricing and innovative offers such as cash rebates if paying via selected credit cards. About 34 per cent of household consumers have made a switch. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched pay an electricity rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. Retailers are offering rates ranging from 17.66 cents/kWh (kilowatt hour ) to 23.01 cents/kWh for their fixed price plans and discounts ranging from 14.5 per cent to 25 per cent off the regulated tariff plans. Most households that switched signed up for 24-month standard price plans. The fixed-price plans have seen a higher take-up than the discount off the regulated tariff plans, the EMA said. Bear in mind that you should buy electricity only from retailers authorised by the EMA. And buying electricity from a retailer does not change the way power is physically supplied to you because SP will continue to operate the national grid. For those who have not switched to an electricity retailer, there is no time pressure as you can change at any time and you can continue to buy electricity from SP at the regulated tariff as you do today. The Sunday Times highlights the role of SP, and the various plans and factors to consider so you can make an informed decision on the price plan that best suits your needs. SP’s role in OEM SP does not generate or sell electricity. It buys it from power generation companies and distributes it to consumers at zero markup. SP has continued to own, operate and maintain the national electricity grid since the OEM. It transmits and distributes electricity to all consumers. This ensures a reliable supply, regardless of your choice of retailer. SP also acts as a safeguard. If a retailer ceases operations, SP Group will take over the accounts at the default tariff price and continue to supply electricity to consumers. SP’s Wholesale Price Plan Consumers can choose from any of the 12 retailers (the list may change over time), selecting one of the many price plans that best suits their needs. Some consumers may not be aware that they can also buy directly from the wholesale electricity market via SP. This is because SP offers two price plans – the regulated tariff and a wholesale price. Consumers who prefer to keep How they compare Name Best Electricity Diamond Electric Geneco iSwitch Keppel Electric Ohm Electricity PacificLight SembCorp Power Senoko Energy Sunseap Tuas Power Union Power NOTE: Table as at Aug 26, 2019. Type of plans offered Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Wholesale market rate plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan the status quo can choose to remain with SP on the regulated tariff that is set by the EMA. When the market was progressively liberalised from 2001, commercial and industrial customers with higher consumptions already had a choice of buying electricity at a tariffed rate or at a wholesale price Contract length 6 months/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 2 years No contract/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 3 months/2 years 2 years No contract/6 months/ 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year No contract 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 1 year No contract 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 1.5 years/2 years/3 years 6 months/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/2 years Source: SEEDLY.SG SUNDAY TIMES GRAPHICS from SP Group, or at retail price from the big generation companies such as Sembcorp, Tuas, Senoko and Geneco (formerly Seraya). Residential customers had the option of the wholesale price when their respective zones opened up, starting with Jurong in April last year. Price plans available to consumers REGULATED TARIFF This price plan is regulated and set by the EMA quarterly. The tariff takes into consideration the longterm cost of producing electricity and looks to protect consumers from volatile oil and gas prices. As this is a regulated price, SP does not have the flexibility of lowering it by bundling with other offers and service partners. Who is suited for this? Typically, consumers with low electricity consumption prefer to stick to the option they are familiar with and not bother with gimmicks or additional terms and conditions. The tariffed price is stable and regulated. WHOLESALE ELECTRICITY PRICE You can choose to buy electricity directly from the wholesale market at no mark-up. As the prices are determined by market forces, they are the lowest price out there. However, prices fluctuate due to demand and supply of real-time electricity consumption across Singapore. On a day when heavy industries consume a lot of electricity, the demand is high and hence the price is higher compared with night hours when these heavy industries shut down. Who is suited for this? This can be considered by consumers who are more savvy, who do not mind the volatility of real-time electricity costs that change every 30 minutes, and if they tend to consume power more in the night (for example, by using air conditioning) when prices are cheaper than in the day time. In addition, there is no fixed term tied to this option so you can terminate as and when you want. RETAIL PRICE There are multiple plans that are offered by retailers. They can be grouped into: • Fixed price – A fixed price per kilowatt of electricity. A household on this plan will pay a constant rate (for example, 20 cents/kWh) throughout the contract duration. Note that the rates retailers offer may be higher or lower than the regulated tariff. • Discount-off tariff – Discount based on a fixed percentage off the regulated tariff. The family that opts for this plan will get a fixed discount off the prevailing regulated tariff (for example, 5 per cent) throughout the contract duration. The regulated tariff is reviewed by SP Group quarterly and approved by the EMA. While these two plans are relatively cheaper compared with the regulated tariff and could be creatively bundled with other offerings and service partners, they look at the short-term cost of producing electricity, which is why they tend to be tied to a one- or two-year lock-up period. Who is suited for this? It is important that you understand the terms and conditions before signing up for a plan. Check things like whether you need to pay a fee if you terminate the plan and make a switch. Do not make the decision to switch to a retailer simply based on price. Assess your lifestyle needs and consumption patterns. In general, if you are looking at locking up a fixed price for the next one or two years, getting a fixedpriced plan is an option. Others who would like a fixed discount over the regulated tariff can opt for the discount-off tariff plan. Some retailers also offer green-energy plans that are catered towards consumers who want to do their part for the environment. Making comparisons There are more than 100 different plans offered by electricity retailers. You can visit compare.openelectricitymarket.sg to make price comparisons. Seedly has also launched an Electricity Market price comparison tool which compares the plans based on user reviews, rates, housing type, promotional codes and deals in the market. Over at UOB Bank, its UOB Utility Marketplace makes it easy for consumers to compare providers and plans through its Electricity Price Plan Recommender. lornatan@sph.com.sg Understanding the electricity tariff SP Group does not have a retailer licence and can only supply electricity to consumers at the regulated tariff rate. About 75 per cent of the tariff goes directly to generation companies as SP passes down the cost directly without any mark-up. Approximately 24 per cent of the regulated tariff goes to SP for grid charges and a market-support services fee. This component of the tariff works out to approximately five to six cents, and goes towards operating, maintaining and upgrading the national electricity grid. While energy costs have gone up and down through the years, SP says the fees for maintaining the grid have been kept stable over the past decade. SP Group is believed to be the most reliable energy distributor in the world, based on the average length of electricity interruption experienced by users. According to the System Average Interruption Duration Index, Singapore’s score is under a minute, next best is Osaka at five minutes. Energy-saving tips Electricity is generated here by burning natural gas and oil, which releases pollutants and greenhouse gases. These trap heat from the sun and keep it from escaping, causing the earth to become warmer, which in turn changes climates everywhere. When we use electricity wisely, there will be less pollution and fewer greenhouse gases. So it’s important to do our part to practise good energy conservation habits. Here are some household energy-savings tips from Singapore Power and the National Environment Agency. LIVING ROOM • Choose energy-saving lighting such as LED bulbs instead of incandescent lamps. • Always switch off electrical appliances at the power socket. Standby power can account for up to 10 per cent of home energy use. BEDROOM • Service your air-conditioners and clean the filters regularly to ensure optimal working condition. • Set the air-conditioner temperature to 25 deg C or higher. The lower the temperature, the more electricity is used. • Close doors and windows when the air-conditioning is on. • Use a laptop instead of desktop as it uses less electricity. KITCHEN • Cover liquids and food stored in the refrigerator. Uncovered items release moisture, forcing the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Allow food to cool before putting it into the refrigerator. Hot food causes the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Match the size of the pot with the size of the burner. This is because energy is lost when small pots are used on larger burners. • Wash with an optimal load to maximise energy savings. Lorna Tan Publishedandprinted bySingapore Press Holdings Limited. Co. Regn.No. 198402868E. Amember of AuditBureauof CirculationsSingapore. CustomerService(Circulation): 6388-3838,circs@sph.com.sg, Fax 6746-1925. [20180929]+SP+Group's+role+in+Open+Electricity+Market+-+Response+on+Straits+Times+Forum.pdfhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/spgroup/wcm/connect/spgrp/620a98dd-de66-45f8-b702-7f3eb1a678d8/%5B20180929%5D+SP+Group's+role+in+Open+Electricity+Market+-+Response+on+Straits+Times+Forum.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID= SP Group’s role in electricity industry As published in Straits Times Forum Letter (29 Sept 2018) We thank readers for their letters and the queries they raised (How are new retailers able to offer better prices than SP Group? by Mr Max Leong; Maintaining cost savings tough in the long term by Mr Goh Boon Kai and Many concerns over changes in power market by Mr Ong Soon Yam for their letters, all on Sept 25). SP Group operates and maintains the electricity grid and provides market support services such as billing and meter reading. Under the regulated tariff set by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) for the period of July 1 to Sept 30, SP Group is paid 5.71 cents per kWh (SP Component) for the above services, out of 23.65 cents per kWh paid by residential consumers. The remaining tariff components go to the generation companies, Energy Market Company for market administration, and EMA for power system operator costs. Under the Open Electricity Market (OEM), consumers will be able to buy electricity from retailers, at the retail electricity price, instead of buying under the tariff set by the EMA. The electricity price offered by retailers will also include the SP Component. Whether consumers buy electricity under tariff, or through a retailer, the SP Component collected from consumers is the same. It is regulated by the EMA, and has been stable the past 10 years, even as the electricity tariff fluctuated. Chuah Kee Heng Managing Director SP Services Jan-08 Apr-08 Jul-08 Oct-08 Jan-09 Apr-09 Jul-09 Oct-09 Jan-10 Apr-10 Jul-10 Oct-10 Jan-11 Apr-11 Jul-11 Oct-11 Jan-12 Apr-12 Jul-12 Oct-12 Jan-13 Apr-13 Jul-13 Oct-13 Jan-14 Apr-14 Jul-14 Oct-14 Jan-15 Apr-15 Jul-15 Oct-15 Jan-16 Apr-16 Jul-16 Oct-16 Jan-17 Apr-17 Jul-17 Oct-17 Jan-18 Apr-18 Jul-18 Reference Low Tension Electricity Tariff for Residential Customers 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Grid Charge MSS Fee Market Admin & PSO Energy Cost Q3 2018 TARIFF (July – September) Market Admin & Power System Operator Fee to EMA (No change) 0.05¢/kWh (<1%) Market Support Services Fee to SP Group (No change) 0.40¢/kWh (1. to7%) Network Costs to SP Group (No change) 5.31¢/kWh (22.5%) Energy Costs to electricity generation companies (Increase by 1.50¢/kWh compared to previous quarter) 17.89¢/kWh (75.6%) Searchhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/search?tag=open-electricity-market Search Open Electricity Markethttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/our-services/utilities/open-electricity-market OverviewUtilities Quick Guide ResidentialUtilities Quick Guide CommercialGo green, go paperlessTariff informationOpen Electricity MarketFAQsForm & ResourcesChat with Us Open Electricity Market The Open Electricity Market is an initiative by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) that allows you to enjoy more choices and flexibility when buying electricity. You can benefit from competitive pricing and innovative offers from retailers. With the Open Electricity Market, you have the choice of buying electricity from: SP Group at the regulated tariff (no action is required if you choose this option); or An electricity retailer at a price plan that best meets your needs; or The wholesale electricity market at half-hourly wholesale electricity prices through SP Group. Regardless of who you buy your electricity from, your electricity supply will stay the same. This is because SP Group will continue to operate the national power grid and deliver electricity to everyone. Working with Retailers Our goal is to make processes convenient and efficient for all customers. SP will facilitate customer transfers between retailers and offer retailers one-stop utilities billing and call centre services. As the Market Support Services Licensee, SP continues to provide services such as: Opening of utilities account Meter reading Meter data management Billing services If your Retailer Exits the Market You will be transferred to buy electricity from SP Group as a last resort. Households and small businesses with an average monthly consumption of less than 4MWh will buy electricity at the regulated tariff rate. Larger businesses with an average monthly consumption of at least 4MWh will buy electricity at the wholesale electricity price. There will be no disruption to your electricity supply. You will continue to receive your electricity supply through the national power grid that is operated by SP Group. Making the Switch to a Retailer Residential Consumers Business Consumers For more information on Open Electricity Market Visit www.openelectricitymarket.com.sg Have a business enquiry? Interested to find out more how our integrated services can serve your business needs? Drop us an online enquiry, and our qualified professionals will reach out to you. Contact Us The Sunday Times - Open Electricity Market - How to save energy and moneyhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/jcr:4b271c9a-e89d-4c36-ae95-3f38f985c89c B14 | The Sunday Times | Sunday, September 1, 2019 Me & My Property Before investing in properties, entrepreneur Gerald Tan researches extensively such as viewing listings online. B11 The Energy Market Authority stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 electricity retailers pay a rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. ST FILE PHOTO Open electricity market: How to save energy and money About 34% of household consumers made switch, most on 24-month standard price plan Lorna Tan Invest Editor The nationwide roll-out of the Open Electricity Market (OEM) has been completed so consumers have the power to choose who to buy electricity from and potentially lower their power bills. The roll-out started with a soft launch to households and businesses in Jurong in April last year and ended with the last zone in May, with around 1.6 million accounts or households connected. You would have received a notification package and a booklet on how to switch out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 retailers. The option to choose from these electricity retailers comes with benefits like competitive pricing and innovative offers such as cash rebates if paying via selected credit cards. About 34 per cent of household consumers have made a switch. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched pay an electricity rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. Retailers are offering rates ranging from 17.66 cents/kWh (kilowatt hour ) to 23.01 cents/kWh for their fixed price plans and discounts ranging from 14.5 per cent to 25 per cent off the regulated tariff plans. Most households that switched signed up for 24-month standard price plans. The fixed-price plans have seen a higher take-up than the discount off the regulated tariff plans, the EMA said. Bear in mind that you should buy electricity only from retailers authorised by the EMA. And buying electricity from a retailer does not change the way power is physically supplied to you because SP will continue to operate the national grid. For those who have not switched to an electricity retailer, there is no time pressure as you can change at any time and you can continue to buy electricity from SP at the regulated tariff as you do today. The Sunday Times highlights the role of SP, and the various plans and factors to consider so you can make an informed decision on the price plan that best suits your needs. SP’s role in OEM SP does not generate or sell electricity. It buys it from power generation companies and distributes it to consumers at zero markup. SP has continued to own, operate and maintain the national electricity grid since the OEM. It transmits and distributes electricity to all consumers. This ensures a reliable supply, regardless of your choice of retailer. SP also acts as a safeguard. If a retailer ceases operations, SP Group will take over the accounts at the default tariff price and continue to supply electricity to consumers. SP’s Wholesale Price Plan Consumers can choose from any of the 12 retailers (the list may change over time), selecting one of the many price plans that best suits their needs. Some consumers may not be aware that they can also buy directly from the wholesale electricity market via SP. This is because SP offers two price plans – the regulated tariff and a wholesale price. Consumers who prefer to keep How they compare Name Best Electricity Diamond Electric Geneco iSwitch Keppel Electric Ohm Electricity PacificLight SembCorp Power Senoko Energy Sunseap Tuas Power Union Power NOTE: Table as at Aug 26, 2019. Type of plans offered Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Wholesale market rate plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan the status quo can choose to remain with SP on the regulated tariff that is set by the EMA. When the market was progressively liberalised from 2001, commercial and industrial customers with higher consumptions already had a choice of buying electricity at a tariffed rate or at a wholesale price Contract length 6 months/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 2 years No contract/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 3 months/2 years 2 years No contract/6 months/ 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year No contract 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 1 year No contract 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 1.5 years/2 years/3 years 6 months/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/2 years Source: SEEDLY.SG SUNDAY TIMES GRAPHICS from SP Group, or at retail price from the big generation companies such as Sembcorp, Tuas, Senoko and Geneco (formerly Seraya). Residential customers had the option of the wholesale price when their respective zones opened up, starting with Jurong in April last year. Price plans available to consumers REGULATED TARIFF This price plan is regulated and set by the EMA quarterly. The tariff takes into consideration the longterm cost of producing electricity and looks to protect consumers from volatile oil and gas prices. As this is a regulated price, SP does not have the flexibility of lowering it by bundling with other offers and service partners. Who is suited for this? Typically, consumers with low electricity consumption prefer to stick to the option they are familiar with and not bother with gimmicks or additional terms and conditions. The tariffed price is stable and regulated. WHOLESALE ELECTRICITY PRICE You can choose to buy electricity directly from the wholesale market at no mark-up. As the prices are determined by market forces, they are the lowest price out there. However, prices fluctuate due to demand and supply of real-time electricity consumption across Singapore. On a day when heavy industries consume a lot of electricity, the demand is high and hence the price is higher compared with night hours when these heavy industries shut down. Who is suited for this? This can be considered by consumers who are more savvy, who do not mind the volatility of real-time electricity costs that change every 30 minutes, and if they tend to consume power more in the night (for example, by using air conditioning) when prices are cheaper than in the day time. In addition, there is no fixed term tied to this option so you can terminate as and when you want. RETAIL PRICE There are multiple plans that are offered by retailers. They can be grouped into: • Fixed price – A fixed price per kilowatt of electricity. A household on this plan will pay a constant rate (for example, 20 cents/kWh) throughout the contract duration. Note that the rates retailers offer may be higher or lower than the regulated tariff. • Discount-off tariff – Discount based on a fixed percentage off the regulated tariff. The family that opts for this plan will get a fixed discount off the prevailing regulated tariff (for example, 5 per cent) throughout the contract duration. The regulated tariff is reviewed by SP Group quarterly and approved by the EMA. While these two plans are relatively cheaper compared with the regulated tariff and could be creatively bundled with other offerings and service partners, they look at the short-term cost of producing electricity, which is why they tend to be tied to a one- or two-year lock-up period. Who is suited for this? It is important that you understand the terms and conditions before signing up for a plan. Check things like whether you need to pay a fee if you terminate the plan and make a switch. Do not make the decision to switch to a retailer simply based on price. Assess your lifestyle needs and consumption patterns. In general, if you are looking at locking up a fixed price for the next one or two years, getting a fixedpriced plan is an option. Others who would like a fixed discount over the regulated tariff can opt for the discount-off tariff plan. Some retailers also offer green-energy plans that are catered towards consumers who want to do their part for the environment. Making comparisons There are more than 100 different plans offered by electricity retailers. You can visit compare.openelectricitymarket.sg to make price comparisons. Seedly has also launched an Electricity Market price comparison tool which compares the plans based on user reviews, rates, housing type, promotional codes and deals in the market. Over at UOB Bank, its UOB Utility Marketplace makes it easy for consumers to compare providers and plans through its Electricity Price Plan Recommender. lornatan@sph.com.sg Understanding the electricity tariff SP Group does not have a retailer licence and can only supply electricity to consumers at the regulated tariff rate. About 75 per cent of the tariff goes directly to generation companies as SP passes down the cost directly without any mark-up. Approximately 24 per cent of the regulated tariff goes to SP for grid charges and a market-support services fee. This component of the tariff works out to approximately five to six cents, and goes towards operating, maintaining and upgrading the national electricity grid. While energy costs have gone up and down through the years, SP says the fees for maintaining the grid have been kept stable over the past decade. SP Group is believed to be the most reliable energy distributor in the world, based on the average length of electricity interruption experienced by users. According to the System Average Interruption Duration Index, Singapore’s score is under a minute, next best is Osaka at five minutes. Energy-saving tips Electricity is generated here by burning natural gas and oil, which releases pollutants and greenhouse gases. These trap heat from the sun and keep it from escaping, causing the earth to become warmer, which in turn changes climates everywhere. When we use electricity wisely, there will be less pollution and fewer greenhouse gases. So it’s important to do our part to practise good energy conservation habits. Here are some household energy-savings tips from Singapore Power and the National Environment Agency. LIVING ROOM • Choose energy-saving lighting such as LED bulbs instead of incandescent lamps. • Always switch off electrical appliances at the power socket. Standby power can account for up to 10 per cent of home energy use. BEDROOM • Service your air-conditioners and clean the filters regularly to ensure optimal working condition. • Set the air-conditioner temperature to 25 deg C or higher. The lower the temperature, the more electricity is used. • Close doors and windows when the air-conditioning is on. • Use a laptop instead of desktop as it uses less electricity. KITCHEN • Cover liquids and food stored in the refrigerator. Uncovered items release moisture, forcing the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Allow food to cool before putting it into the refrigerator. Hot food causes the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Match the size of the pot with the size of the burner. This is because energy is lost when small pots are used on larger burners. • Wash with an optimal load to maximise energy savings. Lorna Tan Publishedandprinted bySingapore Press Holdings Limited. Co. Regn.No. 198402868E. Amember of AuditBureauof CirculationsSingapore. CustomerService(Circulation): 6388-3838,circs@sph.com.sg, Fax 6746-1925. Searchhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/search?tag=open-electricity-market Search Open Electricity Markethttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/our-services/utilities/open-electricity-market OverviewUtilities Quick Guide ResidentialUtilities Quick Guide CommercialGo green, go paperlessTariff informationOpen Electricity MarketFAQsForm & ResourcesChat with Us Open Electricity Market The Open Electricity Market is an initiative by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) that allows you to enjoy more choices and flexibility when buying electricity. You can benefit from competitive pricing and innovative offers from retailers. With the Open Electricity Market, you have the choice of buying electricity from: SP Group at the regulated tariff (no action is required if you choose this option); or An electricity retailer at a price plan that best meets your needs; or The wholesale electricity market at half-hourly wholesale electricity prices through SP Group. Regardless of who you buy your electricity from, your electricity supply will stay the same. This is because SP Group will continue to operate the national power grid and deliver electricity to everyone. Working with Retailers Our goal is to make processes convenient and efficient for all customers. SP will facilitate customer transfers between retailers and offer retailers one-stop utilities billing and call centre services. As the Market Support Services Licensee, SP continues to provide services such as: Opening of utilities account Meter reading Meter data management Billing services If your Retailer Exits the Market You will be transferred to buy electricity from SP Group as a last resort. Households and small businesses with an average monthly consumption of less than 4MWh will buy electricity at the regulated tariff rate. Larger businesses with an average monthly consumption of at least 4MWh will buy electricity at the wholesale electricity price. There will be no disruption to your electricity supply. You will continue to receive your electricity supply through the national power grid that is operated by SP Group. Making the Switch to a Retailer Residential Consumers Business Consumers For more information on Open Electricity Market Visit www.openelectricitymarket.com.sg Have a business enquiry? Interested to find out more how our integrated services can serve your business needs? Drop us an online enquiry, and our qualified professionals will reach out to you. Contact Us The Sunday Times - Open Electricity Market - How to save energy and moneyhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/jcr:4b271c9a-e89d-4c36-ae95-3f38f985c89c B14 | The Sunday Times | Sunday, September 1, 2019 Me & My Property Before investing in properties, entrepreneur Gerald Tan researches extensively such as viewing listings online. B11 The Energy Market Authority stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 electricity retailers pay a rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. ST FILE PHOTO Open electricity market: How to save energy and money About 34% of household consumers made switch, most on 24-month standard price plan Lorna Tan Invest Editor The nationwide roll-out of the Open Electricity Market (OEM) has been completed so consumers have the power to choose who to buy electricity from and potentially lower their power bills. The roll-out started with a soft launch to households and businesses in Jurong in April last year and ended with the last zone in May, with around 1.6 million accounts or households connected. You would have received a notification package and a booklet on how to switch out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 retailers. The option to choose from these electricity retailers comes with benefits like competitive pricing and innovative offers such as cash rebates if paying via selected credit cards. About 34 per cent of household consumers have made a switch. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched pay an electricity rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. Retailers are offering rates ranging from 17.66 cents/kWh (kilowatt hour ) to 23.01 cents/kWh for their fixed price plans and discounts ranging from 14.5 per cent to 25 per cent off the regulated tariff plans. Most households that switched signed up for 24-month standard price plans. The fixed-price plans have seen a higher take-up than the discount off the regulated tariff plans, the EMA said. Bear in mind that you should buy electricity only from retailers authorised by the EMA. And buying electricity from a retailer does not change the way power is physically supplied to you because SP will continue to operate the national grid. For those who have not switched to an electricity retailer, there is no time pressure as you can change at any time and you can continue to buy electricity from SP at the regulated tariff as you do today. The Sunday Times highlights the role of SP, and the various plans and factors to consider so you can make an informed decision on the price plan that best suits your needs. SP’s role in OEM SP does not generate or sell electricity. It buys it from power generation companies and distributes it to consumers at zero markup. SP has continued to own, operate and maintain the national electricity grid since the OEM. It transmits and distributes electricity to all consumers. This ensures a reliable supply, regardless of your choice of retailer. SP also acts as a safeguard. If a retailer ceases operations, SP Group will take over the accounts at the default tariff price and continue to supply electricity to consumers. SP’s Wholesale Price Plan Consumers can choose from any of the 12 retailers (the list may change over time), selecting one of the many price plans that best suits their needs. Some consumers may not be aware that they can also buy directly from the wholesale electricity market via SP. This is because SP offers two price plans – the regulated tariff and a wholesale price. Consumers who prefer to keep How they compare Name Best Electricity Diamond Electric Geneco iSwitch Keppel Electric Ohm Electricity PacificLight SembCorp Power Senoko Energy Sunseap Tuas Power Union Power NOTE: Table as at Aug 26, 2019. Type of plans offered Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Wholesale market rate plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan the status quo can choose to remain with SP on the regulated tariff that is set by the EMA. When the market was progressively liberalised from 2001, commercial and industrial customers with higher consumptions already had a choice of buying electricity at a tariffed rate or at a wholesale price Contract length 6 months/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 2 years No contract/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 3 months/2 years 2 years No contract/6 months/ 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year No contract 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 1 year No contract 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 1.5 years/2 years/3 years 6 months/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/2 years Source: SEEDLY.SG SUNDAY TIMES GRAPHICS from SP Group, or at retail price from the big generation companies such as Sembcorp, Tuas, Senoko and Geneco (formerly Seraya). Residential customers had the option of the wholesale price when their respective zones opened up, starting with Jurong in April last year. Price plans available to consumers REGULATED TARIFF This price plan is regulated and set by the EMA quarterly. The tariff takes into consideration the longterm cost of producing electricity and looks to protect consumers from volatile oil and gas prices. As this is a regulated price, SP does not have the flexibility of lowering it by bundling with other offers and service partners. Who is suited for this? Typically, consumers with low electricity consumption prefer to stick to the option they are familiar with and not bother with gimmicks or additional terms and conditions. The tariffed price is stable and regulated. WHOLESALE ELECTRICITY PRICE You can choose to buy electricity directly from the wholesale market at no mark-up. As the prices are determined by market forces, they are the lowest price out there. However, prices fluctuate due to demand and supply of real-time electricity consumption across Singapore. On a day when heavy industries consume a lot of electricity, the demand is high and hence the price is higher compared with night hours when these heavy industries shut down. Who is suited for this? This can be considered by consumers who are more savvy, who do not mind the volatility of real-time electricity costs that change every 30 minutes, and if they tend to consume power more in the night (for example, by using air conditioning) when prices are cheaper than in the day time. In addition, there is no fixed term tied to this option so you can terminate as and when you want. RETAIL PRICE There are multiple plans that are offered by retailers. They can be grouped into: • Fixed price – A fixed price per kilowatt of electricity. A household on this plan will pay a constant rate (for example, 20 cents/kWh) throughout the contract duration. Note that the rates retailers offer may be higher or lower than the regulated tariff. • Discount-off tariff – Discount based on a fixed percentage off the regulated tariff. The family that opts for this plan will get a fixed discount off the prevailing regulated tariff (for example, 5 per cent) throughout the contract duration. The regulated tariff is reviewed by SP Group quarterly and approved by the EMA. While these two plans are relatively cheaper compared with the regulated tariff and could be creatively bundled with other offerings and service partners, they look at the short-term cost of producing electricity, which is why they tend to be tied to a one- or two-year lock-up period. Who is suited for this? It is important that you understand the terms and conditions before signing up for a plan. Check things like whether you need to pay a fee if you terminate the plan and make a switch. Do not make the decision to switch to a retailer simply based on price. Assess your lifestyle needs and consumption patterns. In general, if you are looking at locking up a fixed price for the next one or two years, getting a fixedpriced plan is an option. Others who would like a fixed discount over the regulated tariff can opt for the discount-off tariff plan. Some retailers also offer green-energy plans that are catered towards consumers who want to do their part for the environment. Making comparisons There are more than 100 different plans offered by electricity retailers. You can visit compare.openelectricitymarket.sg to make price comparisons. Seedly has also launched an Electricity Market price comparison tool which compares the plans based on user reviews, rates, housing type, promotional codes and deals in the market. Over at UOB Bank, its UOB Utility Marketplace makes it easy for consumers to compare providers and plans through its Electricity Price Plan Recommender. lornatan@sph.com.sg Understanding the electricity tariff SP Group does not have a retailer licence and can only supply electricity to consumers at the regulated tariff rate. About 75 per cent of the tariff goes directly to generation companies as SP passes down the cost directly without any mark-up. Approximately 24 per cent of the regulated tariff goes to SP for grid charges and a market-support services fee. This component of the tariff works out to approximately five to six cents, and goes towards operating, maintaining and upgrading the national electricity grid. While energy costs have gone up and down through the years, SP says the fees for maintaining the grid have been kept stable over the past decade. SP Group is believed to be the most reliable energy distributor in the world, based on the average length of electricity interruption experienced by users. According to the System Average Interruption Duration Index, Singapore’s score is under a minute, next best is Osaka at five minutes. Energy-saving tips Electricity is generated here by burning natural gas and oil, which releases pollutants and greenhouse gases. These trap heat from the sun and keep it from escaping, causing the earth to become warmer, which in turn changes climates everywhere. When we use electricity wisely, there will be less pollution and fewer greenhouse gases. So it’s important to do our part to practise good energy conservation habits. Here are some household energy-savings tips from Singapore Power and the National Environment Agency. LIVING ROOM • Choose energy-saving lighting such as LED bulbs instead of incandescent lamps. • Always switch off electrical appliances at the power socket. Standby power can account for up to 10 per cent of home energy use. BEDROOM • Service your air-conditioners and clean the filters regularly to ensure optimal working condition. • Set the air-conditioner temperature to 25 deg C or higher. The lower the temperature, the more electricity is used. • Close doors and windows when the air-conditioning is on. • Use a laptop instead of desktop as it uses less electricity. KITCHEN • Cover liquids and food stored in the refrigerator. Uncovered items release moisture, forcing the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Allow food to cool before putting it into the refrigerator. Hot food causes the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Match the size of the pot with the size of the burner. This is because energy is lost when small pots are used on larger burners. • Wash with an optimal load to maximise energy savings. Lorna Tan Publishedandprinted bySingapore Press Holdings Limited. Co. Regn.No. 198402868E. Amember of AuditBureauof CirculationsSingapore. CustomerService(Circulation): 6388-3838,circs@sph.com.sg, Fax 6746-1925. [20180929]+SP+Group's+role+in+Open+Electricity+Market+-+Response+on+Straits+Times+Forum.pdfhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/spgroup/wcm/connect/spgrp/620a98dd-de66-45f8-b702-7f3eb1a678d8/%5B20180929%5D+SP+Group's+role+in+Open+Electricity+Market+-+Response+on+Straits+Times+Forum.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID= SP Group’s role in electricity industry As published in Straits Times Forum Letter (29 Sept 2018) We thank readers for their letters and the queries they raised (How are new retailers able to offer better prices than SP Group? by Mr Max Leong; Maintaining cost savings tough in the long term by Mr Goh Boon Kai and Many concerns over changes in power market by Mr Ong Soon Yam for their letters, all on Sept 25). SP Group operates and maintains the electricity grid and provides market support services such as billing and meter reading. Under the regulated tariff set by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) for the period of July 1 to Sept 30, SP Group is paid 5.71 cents per kWh (SP Component) for the above services, out of 23.65 cents per kWh paid by residential consumers. The remaining tariff components go to the generation companies, Energy Market Company for market administration, and EMA for power system operator costs. Under the Open Electricity Market (OEM), consumers will be able to buy electricity from retailers, at the retail electricity price, instead of buying under the tariff set by the EMA. The electricity price offered by retailers will also include the SP Component. Whether consumers buy electricity under tariff, or through a retailer, the SP Component collected from consumers is the same. It is regulated by the EMA, and has been stable the past 10 years, even as the electricity tariff fluctuated. Chuah Kee Heng Managing Director SP Services Jan-08 Apr-08 Jul-08 Oct-08 Jan-09 Apr-09 Jul-09 Oct-09 Jan-10 Apr-10 Jul-10 Oct-10 Jan-11 Apr-11 Jul-11 Oct-11 Jan-12 Apr-12 Jul-12 Oct-12 Jan-13 Apr-13 Jul-13 Oct-13 Jan-14 Apr-14 Jul-14 Oct-14 Jan-15 Apr-15 Jul-15 Oct-15 Jan-16 Apr-16 Jul-16 Oct-16 Jan-17 Apr-17 Jul-17 Oct-17 Jan-18 Apr-18 Jul-18 Reference Low Tension Electricity Tariff for Residential Customers 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Grid Charge MSS Fee Market Admin & PSO Energy Cost Q3 2018 TARIFF (July – September) Market Admin & Power System Operator Fee to EMA (No change) 0.05¢/kWh (<1%) Market Support Services Fee to SP Group (No change) 0.40¢/kWh (1. to7%) Network Costs to SP Group (No change) 5.31¢/kWh (22.5%) Energy Costs to electricity generation companies (Increase by 1.50¢/kWh compared to previous quarter) 17.89¢/kWh (75.6%) Searchhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/search?tag=open-electricity-market Search Open Electricity Markethttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/our-services/utilities/open-electricity-market OverviewUtilities Quick Guide ResidentialUtilities Quick Guide CommercialGo green, go paperlessTariff informationOpen Electricity MarketFAQsForm & ResourcesChat with Us Open Electricity Market The Open Electricity Market is an initiative by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) that allows you to enjoy more choices and flexibility when buying electricity. You can benefit from competitive pricing and innovative offers from retailers. With the Open Electricity Market, you have the choice of buying electricity from: SP Group at the regulated tariff (no action is required if you choose this option); or An electricity retailer at a price plan that best meets your needs; or The wholesale electricity market at half-hourly wholesale electricity prices through SP Group. Regardless of who you buy your electricity from, your electricity supply will stay the same. This is because SP Group will continue to operate the national power grid and deliver electricity to everyone. Working with Retailers Our goal is to make processes convenient and efficient for all customers. SP will facilitate customer transfers between retailers and offer retailers one-stop utilities billing and call centre services. As the Market Support Services Licensee, SP continues to provide services such as: Opening of utilities account Meter reading Meter data management Billing services If your Retailer Exits the Market You will be transferred to buy electricity from SP Group as a last resort. Households and small businesses with an average monthly consumption of less than 4MWh will buy electricity at the regulated tariff rate. Larger businesses with an average monthly consumption of at least 4MWh will buy electricity at the wholesale electricity price. There will be no disruption to your electricity supply. You will continue to receive your electricity supply through the national power grid that is operated by SP Group. Making the Switch to a Retailer Residential Consumers Business Consumers For more information on Open Electricity Market Visit www.openelectricitymarket.com.sg Have a business enquiry? Interested to find out more how our integrated services can serve your business needs? Drop us an online enquiry, and our qualified professionals will reach out to you. Contact Us The Sunday Times - Open Electricity Market - How to save energy and moneyhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/dam/jcr:4b271c9a-e89d-4c36-ae95-3f38f985c89c B14 | The Sunday Times | Sunday, September 1, 2019 Me & My Property Before investing in properties, entrepreneur Gerald Tan researches extensively such as viewing listings online. B11 The Energy Market Authority stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 electricity retailers pay a rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. ST FILE PHOTO Open electricity market: How to save energy and money About 34% of household consumers made switch, most on 24-month standard price plan Lorna Tan Invest Editor The nationwide roll-out of the Open Electricity Market (OEM) has been completed so consumers have the power to choose who to buy electricity from and potentially lower their power bills. The roll-out started with a soft launch to households and businesses in Jurong in April last year and ended with the last zone in May, with around 1.6 million accounts or households connected. You would have received a notification package and a booklet on how to switch out of buying electricity from SP Power to one of the 12 retailers. The option to choose from these electricity retailers comes with benefits like competitive pricing and innovative offers such as cash rebates if paying via selected credit cards. About 34 per cent of household consumers have made a switch. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) stated earlier this year that consumers who have switched pay an electricity rate that is about 20 to 30 per cent lower than the regulated tariff. Retailers are offering rates ranging from 17.66 cents/kWh (kilowatt hour ) to 23.01 cents/kWh for their fixed price plans and discounts ranging from 14.5 per cent to 25 per cent off the regulated tariff plans. Most households that switched signed up for 24-month standard price plans. The fixed-price plans have seen a higher take-up than the discount off the regulated tariff plans, the EMA said. Bear in mind that you should buy electricity only from retailers authorised by the EMA. And buying electricity from a retailer does not change the way power is physically supplied to you because SP will continue to operate the national grid. For those who have not switched to an electricity retailer, there is no time pressure as you can change at any time and you can continue to buy electricity from SP at the regulated tariff as you do today. The Sunday Times highlights the role of SP, and the various plans and factors to consider so you can make an informed decision on the price plan that best suits your needs. SP’s role in OEM SP does not generate or sell electricity. It buys it from power generation companies and distributes it to consumers at zero markup. SP has continued to own, operate and maintain the national electricity grid since the OEM. It transmits and distributes electricity to all consumers. This ensures a reliable supply, regardless of your choice of retailer. SP also acts as a safeguard. If a retailer ceases operations, SP Group will take over the accounts at the default tariff price and continue to supply electricity to consumers. SP’s Wholesale Price Plan Consumers can choose from any of the 12 retailers (the list may change over time), selecting one of the many price plans that best suits their needs. Some consumers may not be aware that they can also buy directly from the wholesale electricity market via SP. This is because SP offers two price plans – the regulated tariff and a wholesale price. Consumers who prefer to keep How they compare Name Best Electricity Diamond Electric Geneco iSwitch Keppel Electric Ohm Electricity PacificLight SembCorp Power Senoko Energy Sunseap Tuas Power Union Power NOTE: Table as at Aug 26, 2019. Type of plans offered Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Wholesale market rate plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Peak and off-peak plan Non-standard Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan Fixed-rate plan Discount-off tariff plan the status quo can choose to remain with SP on the regulated tariff that is set by the EMA. When the market was progressively liberalised from 2001, commercial and industrial customers with higher consumptions already had a choice of buying electricity at a tariffed rate or at a wholesale price Contract length 6 months/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 2 years No contract/1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years/3 years 3 months/2 years 2 years No contract/6 months/ 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year No contract 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year 1 year/2 years/3 years 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 1 year No contract 1 year/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 6 months/1 year/2 years 1.5 years/2 years/3 years 6 months/2 years 1 year/2 years 6 months/2 years Source: SEEDLY.SG SUNDAY TIMES GRAPHICS from SP Group, or at retail price from the big generation companies such as Sembcorp, Tuas, Senoko and Geneco (formerly Seraya). Residential customers had the option of the wholesale price when their respective zones opened up, starting with Jurong in April last year. Price plans available to consumers REGULATED TARIFF This price plan is regulated and set by the EMA quarterly. The tariff takes into consideration the longterm cost of producing electricity and looks to protect consumers from volatile oil and gas prices. As this is a regulated price, SP does not have the flexibility of lowering it by bundling with other offers and service partners. Who is suited for this? Typically, consumers with low electricity consumption prefer to stick to the option they are familiar with and not bother with gimmicks or additional terms and conditions. The tariffed price is stable and regulated. WHOLESALE ELECTRICITY PRICE You can choose to buy electricity directly from the wholesale market at no mark-up. As the prices are determined by market forces, they are the lowest price out there. However, prices fluctuate due to demand and supply of real-time electricity consumption across Singapore. On a day when heavy industries consume a lot of electricity, the demand is high and hence the price is higher compared with night hours when these heavy industries shut down. Who is suited for this? This can be considered by consumers who are more savvy, who do not mind the volatility of real-time electricity costs that change every 30 minutes, and if they tend to consume power more in the night (for example, by using air conditioning) when prices are cheaper than in the day time. In addition, there is no fixed term tied to this option so you can terminate as and when you want. RETAIL PRICE There are multiple plans that are offered by retailers. They can be grouped into: • Fixed price – A fixed price per kilowatt of electricity. A household on this plan will pay a constant rate (for example, 20 cents/kWh) throughout the contract duration. Note that the rates retailers offer may be higher or lower than the regulated tariff. • Discount-off tariff – Discount based on a fixed percentage off the regulated tariff. The family that opts for this plan will get a fixed discount off the prevailing regulated tariff (for example, 5 per cent) throughout the contract duration. The regulated tariff is reviewed by SP Group quarterly and approved by the EMA. While these two plans are relatively cheaper compared with the regulated tariff and could be creatively bundled with other offerings and service partners, they look at the short-term cost of producing electricity, which is why they tend to be tied to a one- or two-year lock-up period. Who is suited for this? It is important that you understand the terms and conditions before signing up for a plan. Check things like whether you need to pay a fee if you terminate the plan and make a switch. Do not make the decision to switch to a retailer simply based on price. Assess your lifestyle needs and consumption patterns. In general, if you are looking at locking up a fixed price for the next one or two years, getting a fixedpriced plan is an option. Others who would like a fixed discount over the regulated tariff can opt for the discount-off tariff plan. Some retailers also offer green-energy plans that are catered towards consumers who want to do their part for the environment. Making comparisons There are more than 100 different plans offered by electricity retailers. You can visit compare.openelectricitymarket.sg to make price comparisons. Seedly has also launched an Electricity Market price comparison tool which compares the plans based on user reviews, rates, housing type, promotional codes and deals in the market. Over at UOB Bank, its UOB Utility Marketplace makes it easy for consumers to compare providers and plans through its Electricity Price Plan Recommender. lornatan@sph.com.sg Understanding the electricity tariff SP Group does not have a retailer licence and can only supply electricity to consumers at the regulated tariff rate. About 75 per cent of the tariff goes directly to generation companies as SP passes down the cost directly without any mark-up. Approximately 24 per cent of the regulated tariff goes to SP for grid charges and a market-support services fee. This component of the tariff works out to approximately five to six cents, and goes towards operating, maintaining and upgrading the national electricity grid. While energy costs have gone up and down through the years, SP says the fees for maintaining the grid have been kept stable over the past decade. SP Group is believed to be the most reliable energy distributor in the world, based on the average length of electricity interruption experienced by users. According to the System Average Interruption Duration Index, Singapore’s score is under a minute, next best is Osaka at five minutes. Energy-saving tips Electricity is generated here by burning natural gas and oil, which releases pollutants and greenhouse gases. These trap heat from the sun and keep it from escaping, causing the earth to become warmer, which in turn changes climates everywhere. When we use electricity wisely, there will be less pollution and fewer greenhouse gases. So it’s important to do our part to practise good energy conservation habits. Here are some household energy-savings tips from Singapore Power and the National Environment Agency. LIVING ROOM • Choose energy-saving lighting such as LED bulbs instead of incandescent lamps. • Always switch off electrical appliances at the power socket. Standby power can account for up to 10 per cent of home energy use. BEDROOM • Service your air-conditioners and clean the filters regularly to ensure optimal working condition. • Set the air-conditioner temperature to 25 deg C or higher. The lower the temperature, the more electricity is used. • Close doors and windows when the air-conditioning is on. • Use a laptop instead of desktop as it uses less electricity. KITCHEN • Cover liquids and food stored in the refrigerator. Uncovered items release moisture, forcing the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Allow food to cool before putting it into the refrigerator. Hot food causes the compressor to work harder to keep the temperature low. • Match the size of the pot with the size of the burner. This is because energy is lost when small pots are used on larger burners. • Wash with an optimal load to maximise energy savings. Lorna Tan Publishedandprinted bySingapore Press Holdings Limited. Co. Regn.No. 198402868E. Amember of AuditBureauof CirculationsSingapore. CustomerService(Circulation): 6388-3838,circs@sph.com.sg, Fax 6746-1925. Searchhttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/search?tag=open-electricity-market Search Open Electricity Markethttps://www.spgroup.com.sg/our-services/utilities/open-electricity-market OverviewUtilities Quick Guide ResidentialUtilities Quick Guide CommercialGo green, go paperlessTariff informationOpen Electricity MarketFAQsForm & ResourcesChat with Us Open Electricity Market The Open Electricity M