Media Release SIT Partners SP Group to Boost Engineering Talent and Advance Singapore’s Energy Sector Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed at Energy Innovation (EI) 2022 seeks to upskill more engineering talent with strategic three-year collaboration to supercharge expertise in the energy sector 1. SINGAPORE, 15 July 2022 – The Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and SP Group (SP) are collaborating to enhance the capabilities of the power engineering workforce in Singapore. Through a three-year endeavour, SIT and SP will focus on upskilling and reskilling of SP’s employees. Both organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today at Energy Innovation 2022, organised by the Energy Market Authority (EMA). 2. As Singapore advances towards a sustainable energy future and its Smart Nation ambitions, it is crucial that local talents gain knowledge and skills to adapt and thrive in the evolving energy sector. To grow engineering talent pipeline and skillset for the energy sector, the SIT-SP partnership seeks to provide continuous skills upgrading pathways for SP employees through a full-time undergraduate degree in Electrical Power Engineering. Students will benefit from the Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP) and Capstone Projects, which put theory into practice in real work situations. SIT and SP will provide students with workplace learning opportunities and innovation projects that address emerging needs of the energy industry. 3. Said Professor Chua Kee Chaing, SIT President: “This MOU underscores SIT’s shared commitment with SP to upskill and reskill different generations of power engineers, to cater to new industry demands. As the demands of tomorrow continue to evolve, it calls for closer academia-industry partnerships with industry leaders like SP, and a work-study approach to better train work-ready professionals. As SIT continues to expand its footprint across industries to address these ever-changing needs, we welcome like-minded partners to join our efforts to upskill, reskill, and build the workforce of tomorrow.” 4. Group Chief Executive Officer of SP Group, Stanley Huang, said, “We are pleased to launch the workstudy programme with SIT, to help our workers upskill and adapt to the changing energy landscape. It enables them to pursue an engineering degree course full-time, while continuing in work roles during the course of their study and applying the knowledge they gain. This is part of SP Group’s commitment to continuously develop our workforce for the needs of our industry and support our workers in contributing effectively.” 5. Mr Ngiam Shih Chun, Chief Executive of EMA, said, “As Singapore advances our energy transition towards a more sustainable future, we will need to ensure that workers are equipped with relevant skillsets to take on new opportunities. EMA is supportive of such academia-industry partnerships in building up Singapore’s manpower capabilities for the energy sector. We are heartened to note SP Group’s strong emphasis and commitment on upskilling its employees. We hope this collaboration between SIT and SP Group will be the first of many such partnerships to come, to build a future-ready workforce that will propel Singapore’s energy sector forward.” 6. As a start, a pioneer cohort of SP employees will undertake a full-time three-year Electrical Power Engineering (EPE) undergraduate degree programme at SIT, starting in September 2022. The degree programme, jointly offered by SIT and Newcastle University, is specially customised to provide students with a holistic approach to learning while experiencing hands-on industry-focused activities. More information on the EPE degree programme is in Annex A. 7. As part of this pioneer cohort in September 2022, five SP employees will be onboarded as full-time students, where they will get to apply existing practices from the workplace, and hone their skills through actual work exposure made possible by SIT’s unique applied learning pedagogy. SP will be sponsoring their studies as they pursue their career aspirations and grow their engineering capabilities. 8. This MOU is an extension of the ongoing partnership between SIT and SP over the past few years – which currently includes SP’s investment in Singapore’s first experimental, multi-energy microgrid at SIT’s future campus in the Punggol Digital District, signaling a long-term commitment of both organisations’ collective efforts to advance the energy sector in Singapore. Annex A: SIT’s EPE Undergraduate Degree Programme Tailored for SP Employees The Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Electrical Power Engineering (EPE) is a three-year direct honours degree programme jointly offered by SIT and Newcastle University (NU). As the first locally-offered, dedicated Electrical Power Engineering undergraduate programme, the curriculum is specially customised to meet industry demand in Singapore. It will play an important role in increasing the number of graduates to address the workforce demand in the power sector whilst fulfilling the country’s vision of becoming a Smart Nation. As a joint programme, it will leverage the expertise and resources of both SIT and NU. https://www.singaporetech.edu.sg/undergraduate-programmes/electrical-power-engineering About Singapore Institute of Technology The Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) is Singapore’s first University of Applied Learning, offering specialised degree programmes that prepare its graduates to be work-ready professionals. With a mission to develop individuals and innovate with industry to impact the economy and society in meaningful ways, SIT aims to also be a leader in innovative workplace learning and applied research. The University’s unique pedagogy integrates work and study, embracing authentic learning in a real-world environment through collaborations with key strategic partners. Its focus on applied research with business impact is aimed at helping industry innovate and grow. The University’s centralised campus in Punggol, when ready in 2024, will feature a fit-for-purpose campus within the larger Punggol Digital District, where academia and industry will be tightly integrated with the community. For more information, visit www.SingaporeTech.edu.sg. About SP Group SP Group is a leading utilities group in the Asia Pacific, enabling a low-carbon, smart energy future for its customers. It owns and operates electricity and gas transmission and distribution businesses in Singapore and Australia, and sustainable energy solutions in Singapore, China and Vietnam. As Singapore’s national grid operator, about 1.6 million industrial, commercial, and residential customers benefit from its world-class transmission, distribution and market support services. These networks are amongst the most reliable and cost-effective world-wide. Beyond traditional utilities services, SP Group provides a suite of renewable and sustainable energy solutions including solar energy solutions, microgrids, cooling and heating systems for business districts and residential townships, electric vehicle fast charging and green digital energy management tools for customers in Singapore and the region. For more information, please visit spgroup.com.sg or follow us on Facebook at fb.com/SPGroupSG, and LinkedIn at spgrp.sg/linkedin. About EMA Energy Innovation (EI) 2022 EI is an annual event held to promote knowledge-exchange among industry experts and the research community. For many years, the Energy Market Authority (EMA) has partnered with not only industry players, but also Institutes of Higher Learning and Research Institutes for building sustainable energy solutions and capabilities.

Media Release SP Group Offers EV Full Charging In 30 Minutes Singapore, 9 January 2019 – Electric vehicle (EV) users can now fully charge their vehicles in 30 minutes at SP Group’s (SP) island-wide charging network, with the largest number of fast direct current (DC) chargers. SP is building Singapore’s largest public EV charging network with 1,000 points, including 250 DC charging points, by 2020. SP’s first wave of 38 charging points are located at commercial buildings, industrial sites and educational institutions. (See Annex for the list of charging locations) The locations are close to amenities such as food centres, offering drivers greater convenience while waiting for their vehicles to be charged. There are 19 high-powered 50kW direct current (DC) charging points and the other 19 are 43kW alternating current (AC) charging points. These are among the fastest EV charging points in Singapore. The 50kW DC chargers can fully charge a car in 30 minutes. Over the next few years, SP will introduce more high-powered DC charging points of up to 350kW. Other than SP’s, there are six other DC chargers in Singapore. SP’s new additions will be a game-changer in improving the charging turnaround time for EV drivers in Singapore. EV drivers can also enjoy at least 50 per cent cost savings compared to typical Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles for every kilometre travelled. The cost of using SP charging points will be regularly adjusted, mainly influenced by the prevailing electricity costs in Singapore. “Our nation-wide public charging network offers EV drivers fast charging, with greater convenience and a seamless experience through our digital solution, at cost-competitive rates. This will encourage wider adoption of green mobility in Singapore, and enable drivers to save cost,” said Mr Wong Kim Yin, Group Chief Executive Officer of SP Group. EV drivers can use SP Group’s charging service through the SP Utilities mobile application where they can search for the nearest available charging points, receive updates on their charging sessions and make payment. This first wave of locations includes Singapore Polytechnic. The SP charging points there will also serve as an education and research platform, as part of Singapore Polytechnic’s engineering curriculum to train students and adult learners. Thought this collaboration, SP Group and Singapore Polytechnic aim to develop new skills related to EVs and related charging technologies for Singapore. SP Group is also showcasing its charging points at the Singapore Motorshow 2019 at Suntec City from 10 to 13 January 2019. They will be located at the BMW and Hyundai booths. About SP Group SP Group is a leading energy utilities group in the Asia Pacific. It owns and operates electricity and gas transmission and distribution businesses in Singapore and Australia, and district cooling businesses in Singapore and China. SP Group is committed to providing customers with reliable and efficient energy utilities services. About 1.5 million industrial, commercial and residential customers in Singapore benefit from SP Group’s world-class transmission, distribution and market support services. These networks are amongst the most reliable and cost-effective world-wide. SP Group also drives digital solutions to empower customers to manage their utilities, reduce consumption and save cost. For more information, please visit spgroup.com.sg or for follow us on Facebook at fb.com/SPGroupSG and on Twitter @SPGroupSG. ANNEX: List of charging locations

Media Release Electricity Tariff Revision For The Period From 1 Oct to 31 Dec 2023 Singapore, 29 September 2023 – For the period from 1 October to 31 December 2023, the electricity tariff (before GST) will increase by an average of 3.7% or 0.98 cent per kWh compared with the previous quarter. This is due to higher energy costs compared with the previous quarter. For households, the electricity tariff (before GST) will increase from 27.74 to 28.70 cents per kWh for the period from 1 October to 31 December 2023. The average monthly electricity bill for families living in HDB four-room flats will increase by $3.57 (before GST). *before GST SP Group reviews the electricity tariffs every quarter based on guidelines set by the electricity industry regulator, Energy Market Authority (EMA). Please refer to Appendix 1 for the components of the electricity tariff, Appendix 2 for the tariffs approved by EMA, and Appendix 3 for the average monthly electricity bills for households. Appendix 1 BREAKDOWN OF ELECTRICITY TARIFF 1.  The electricity tariff consists of the following four components: Energy costs (paid to the generation companies): This component is adjusted quarterly to reflect changes in the cost of fuel and power generation. The fuel cost is the cost of imported natural gas, which is tied to oil prices by commercial contracts. The cost of power generation covers mainly the costs of operating the power stations, such as the manpower and maintenance costs, as well as the capital cost of the stations. Network costs (paid to SP Group): This is to recover the cost of transporting electricity through the power grid. Market Support Services Fee (paid to SP Group): This is to recover the costs of billing and meter reading, data management, retail market systems as well as market development initiatives. Market Administration and Power System Operation Fee (paid to Energy Market Company and Power System Operator): This fee is reviewed annually to recover the costs of operating the electricity wholesale market and power system. Q4 2023 TARIFF FOR HOUSEHOLDS (before 8% GST) Appendix 2 ELECTRICITY TARIFFS FROM 1 OCTOBER 2023 Appendix 3 AVERAGE MONTHLY ELECTRICITY BILLS FOR HOUSEHOLDS TARIFF WEF 1 OCTOBER 2023 (before GST)

SPH Media Limited MCI (P) 002/04/2024 http://www.tamilmurasu.com.sg ����: 1935 �����: ����� �.������ 30 ஏப்ரல் 2024 • ெசவ்வாய் • 60 காசு மரினா ேப குளிரூட்டுக் கட்டைமப்பில் சன்ெடக் சிட்டி மரினா ேபயில் உள்ள ‘எஸ்பி’ குழுமத் தின் மிகப் ெபரிய அளவிலான நிலத்தடி வட்டாரக் குளிரூட்டு முைறயில் சன் ெடக் சிட்டி இைணந்துெகாள்ளவிருக் கிறது. இதன் மூலம், ஏற்ெகனேவ உலகின் அத்தைகய ஆகப் ெபரிய கட்டைமப்பு விரிவைடயவிருப்பதாக ‘எஸ்பி’ குழும மும் சன்ெடக் சிட்டியும் ஏப்ரல் 29ஆம் ேததி கூறின. ஒப்பந்தத்தின்கீழ், ‘எஸ்பி’ குழுமம், சன்ெடக் சிட்டியின் குளிரூட்டு முைற யின் ெசயல்பாட்டுக்குப் ெபாறுப்ேபற்கும். அந்தக் குளிரூட்டு முைற 2027ஆம் ஆண்டுக்குள் மரினா ேப வட்டாரக் குளிரூட்டு கட்டைமப்புடன் ஒருங் கிைணக்கப்படும். ஒேர ஒரு ைமயப்படுத்தப்பட்ட குளிரூட்டுச் சாதனத்ைதக் ெகாண் டுள்ள சன்ெடக் சிட்டியின் குளிரூட்டு முைற, அதன் ஐந்து அலுவலகக் கட்ட டங்கள், சில்லைறப் ேபரங்காடி, மாநாட்டு மண்டபம் ஆகியவற்றுக்குக் குளிரூட்டுச் ேசைவகைள வழங்குகிறது. சன்ெடக் சிட்டி உட்பட, ெசயல்பாட்டில் உள்ள தற்ேபாைதய ஒட்டுெமாத்தக் குளிரூட்டு ஆற்றல் 203,000 ‘ெரஃப்ரிெஜ ரன்ட் டன்’ அளவில் இருக்கும். சிங்கப் பூரில் வட்டாரக் குளிரூட்டுத் தீர்வுகளுக் கான ஆகப் ெபரிய ேசைவ நிறுவனமாக ‘எஸ்பி’ குழுமம் திகழும். வட்டாரக் குளிரூட்டுக் கட்டைமப்பு, ைமயப்படுத்தப்பட்ட குளிரூட்டுச் சாதனங்கைளப் பயன்படுத்தி, கட்டடங் களின் குளிரூட்டுத் ேதைவகைளப் பூர்த்திெசய்கிறது. இதனால் கட்டைமப் பின் உறுப்பினர்கள் தங்கள் ெசாந்தச் சாதனங்கைள வாங்குவதற்கான ேதைவ இருக்காது. குளிரூட்டு வசதிையப் பகிர்ந்துெகாள் வதாலும், எரிசக்திப் பயனீட்ைடச் சாத கமாகப் பயன்படுத்திக்ெகாள்வதாலும், உறுப்பினர்கள் கரிம ெவளிேயற்றத்ைதக் குைறக்கலாம்; ெசலவுகைள மிச்சப்படுத் தலாம்.

Consumption_Gas Average consumption of Gas (kWh) Premises Types Dec-23 Jan-24 Feb-24 Mar-24 Apr-24 May-24 Jun-24 Jul-24 Aug-24 Sep-24 Oct-24 Nov-24 HDB 1-Room 36 38 38 37 38 35 34 33 35 35 34 35 HDB 2-Room 36 37 38 38 40 37 34 34 36 36 34 35 HDB 3-Room 49 50 52 53 56 50 48 47 51 51 49 50 HDB 4-Room 61 61 64 66 69 62 58 58 62 63 61 62 HDB 5-Room 67 65 70 73 77 68 64 63 69 70 68 69 HDB Executive 70 70 74 78 82 73 68 68 72 74 72 73 Apartment 83 85 91 94 93 80 76 77 82 86 88 88 Terrace 103 100 108 120 114 93 97 98 98 105 107 108 Semi-Detached 118 115 120 133 130 117 105 115 115 120 117 120 Bungalow 200 213 192 220 234 209 168 197 185 198 206 202

SP Energy HubAnnual ReportReliabilitySustainabilityInnovation SP Expands Electric Vehicle Charging Network SUSTAINABILITY SP Group (SP) increased its high-speed electric vehicle (EV) charging network to 200 points across Singapore, including 52 direct current (DC) fast chargers. This comes after SP partnered landlords such as CapitaLand Group, City Developments Limited, Lendlease, Resorts World Sentosa and Soilbuild Group Holdings Ltd to install charging points at select properties. The new charging points will bring greater convenience to EV drivers, with new charging points located in the Central Business District, Orchard Road, Sentosa and Paya Lebar. EV drivers visiting the Orchard Road shopping district, can now charge their cars at Shaw Centre. Republic Plaza is the first commercial building in the CBD to host a fast charger, and Sentosa’s first fast chargers are located at Resorts World Sentosa. Drivers in the east can charge their cars at one of the 20 charging points at Paya Lebar Quarter. This round of expansion has enabled SP to deliver the largest and fastest public EV charging network in Singapore.  For more information on the new wave of charging points, please visit spgrp.sg/ev200. — 10 September 2019 TAGS ELECTRIC VEHICLESSUSTAINABILITY YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED TO READ SP Group expands sustainable energy operations in China with Chongqing Transport Hub project win STMicroelectronics enhances sustainability with chiller cooling system at Toa Payoh SP signs PPA with BASF for rooftop solar deployment

Media Release SP GROUP SHOWCASES BLOCKCHAIN PLATFORM FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY TRANSACTIONS WITH DBS Singapore, 19 April 2018 – In a world-wide debut, SP Group presented a blockchain marketplace platform that will promote the transaction of renewable energy certificates (REC) – tradable certificates of energy generated by renewable sources. DBS, a leading bank in Asia, participated in the platform demonstration as a corporate buyer of RECs. The platform demonstration was presented in Berlin today at Event Horizon, a global energy sector blockchain summit. Designed and engineered by SP Group, this platform enables companies to purchase RECs in a simple, secure and cost-effective manner. This is one of the first global REC marketplace platform powered by blockchain. The platform will help corporates achieve their sustainability goals by ensuring that the electricity they consume comes from renewable sources. It will also encourage a greater integration of renewable energy sources onto the electricity grid. In the preview, audiences saw the use of blockchain technology to enable and track the simulated buying, selling and issuance of an REC transaction between SP Group’s solar installations, and DBS, as a corporate buyer. As one of the first supporters of renewable energy in Singapore, the bank registered on the platform to illustrate how a corporate buyer could purchase RECs seamlessly. DBS is the first Asian bank and first company in Singapore to join global renewable energy initiative RE100, and has committed to using 100% renewable energy for its Singapore operations by 2030. “SP Group is committed to developing innovative green solutions for customers. By using blockchain technology to create an REC marketplace, we are paving the way for a wider adoption of renewable energy sources and sustainable business operations, supporting Singapore’s sustainability focus,” said Mr Samuel Tan, Chief Digital Officer, SP Group Mr Mike Power, Chief Operating Officer of Technology and Operations and leading member of the Sustainability Council at DBS, said: “As an early adopter of renewable energy, DBS welcomes solutions that reduce the underlying costs of RECs. With green solutions such as SP Group’s blockchain platform making incentives for renewable energy more accessible than ever, we see more organisations making the shift to renewables and accelerating Singapore’s energy transition.” The use of blockchain technology will make buying and selling of REC more cost-effective and efficient. It reduces transaction and administrative costs, through automating processes and reducing the need for third-party intermediaries. The unique attributes of blockchain also provides much higher levels of cybersecurity, increasing the transparency and integrity of the transaction. Due to the standardised nature of blockchain infrastructure across countries, this platform will encourage trans-national REC transactions, making it convenient for renewable energy generators and REC buyers from different countries to transact with each other. This will open future markets by creating global opportunities for the industry and making it easier for REC buyers to purchase their green credits. With the liberalisation of retail electricity market in Singapore where households and businesses can choose to buy electricity competitively, “green” electrons (such as renewable energy) are being offered to Singapore electricity consumers. This blockchain platform can potentially be an enabler for “green conscious” homeowners to trade RECs easily and conveniently. About SP Group SP Group is a leading energy utilities group in the Asia Pacific. It owns and operates electricity and gas transmission and distribution businesses in Singapore and Australia, and district cooling businesses in Singapore and China. SP Group is committed to providing customers with reliable and efficient energy utilities services. About 1.5 million industrial, commercial and residential customers in Singapore benefit from SP Group’s world-class transmission, distribution and market support services. These networks are amongst the most reliable and cost-effective world-wide. SP Group also drives digital solutions to empower customers to manage their utilities, reduce consumption and save cost. For more information, please visit spgroup.com.sg or for follow us on Facebook at fb.com/SPGroupSG and on Twitter @SPGroupSG

Singapore Institute of Power and Gas Introduction to Code of Practice for Gas Installation (SS608:2015) and its Applications Course Code: GRG03 COURSE OBJECTIVES Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to: • Know the essential requirements for the safe and good practices in gas service work • Understand the design, materials, installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance of the gas installations and appliances MAIN CONTENTS • Introduction to SS608:2015 (Scope & applications) • Definitions • Design • Pipework • Materials • Installation • Testing & Commissioning • Inspection & Maintenance METHODOLOGY Lecture TARGET AUDIENCE Technical staff who wish to acquire knowledge and perform gas service work COURSE DETAILS Duration : 7 hours Mode of Delivery : Face-to-face or Synchronous E-learning Certification : SIPG Certificate of Completion PDU by PE Board : Pending Additional Requirement/s : Not applicable COURSE FEES Full Course Fee : S$800 (before GST) For Singapore Citizens/PR/LTVP+* : Not applicable For Singapore Citizens (40 years old and above) : Not applicable Singapore Institute of Power and Gas Pte Ltd UEN: 201427065Z 2 Kallang Sector, Singapore 349277 Ver 4.0_0323 Singapore Institute of Power and Gas ADDITIONAL REMARKS • Trainee must attain at least 75% attendance rate and pass the assessment to receive Certificate of Completion and funding grant (if applicable). • Subsidy of up to 70% is applicable for Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents or Long-Term Visitor Pass Plus (LTVP+) Holders, subject to funding agency’s approval. • Enhanced subsidy of up to 90% is applicable for Singapore Citizens aged 40 years and above, subject to funding agency’s approval. Note that GST payable will be computed from fee after 70% funding. • Professional Development Unit (PDU) is applicable for Professional Engineers registered under the Professional Engineers (PE) Board only. • All published fees are subject to prevailing GST. CONTACT US For more information, please contact SIPG at +65 6916 7930 or email training-institute@spgroup.com.sg. OTHER SIPG COURSES For more courses, visit our website at: https://www.spgroup.com.sg/about-us/training or Scan the QR code below: Singapore Institute of Power and Gas Pte Ltd UEN: 201427065Z 2 Kallang Sector, Singapore 349277 Ver 4.0_0323

Media Release Electricity Tariff Revision For The Period 1 July to 30 Sep 2023 Singapore, 30 June 2023 – For the period from 1 July to 30 September 2023, electricity tariff (before GST) will increase by an average of 1.2% or 0.31 cent per kWh compared with the previous quarter. This is due to higher energy costs (as detailed in Appendix 1) compared with the previous quarter. For households, the electricity tariff (before GST) will increase from 27.43 to 27.74 cents per kWh for the period 1 July to 30 September 2023. The average monthly electricity bill for families living in HDB four-room flats will increase by $1.14 (before GST). SP Group reviews the electricity tariffs every quarter based on guidelines set by the electricity industry regulator, Energy Market Authority (EMA). Please refer to Appendix 1 for the components of the electricity tariff, Appendix 2 for the tariffs approved by EMA, and Appendix 3 for the average monthly electricity bills for households.   Issued by: SP Group 2 Kallang Sector Singapore 349277 www.spgroup.com.sg Appendix 1 BREAKDOWN OF ELECTRICITY TARIFF 1. The electricity tariff consists of the following four components: Energy costs (paid to the generation companies): This component is adjusted quarterly to reflect changes in the cost of fuel and power generation. The fuel cost is the cost of imported natural gas, which is tied to oil prices by commercial contracts. The cost of power generation covers mainly the costs of operating the power stations, such as the manpower and maintenance costs, as well as the capital cost of the stations. Network costs (paid to SP Group): This is to recover the cost of transporting electricity through the power grid. Market Support Services Fee (paid to SP Group): This is to recover the costs of billing and meter reading, data management, retail market systems as well as market development initiatives. Market Administration and Power System Operation Fee (paid to Energy Market Company and Power System Operator): This fee is reviewed annually to recover the costs of operating the electricity wholesale market and power system. Appendix 2 Appendix 3 AVERAGE MONTHLY ELECTRICITY BILLS FOR HOUSEHOLDS TARIFF WEF 1 JULY 2023 (before GST)

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 Form 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 Form 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 Form 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 Form 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 Form 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 Form 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 Form 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 e

确 保 夜 间 风 景 线 运 作 如 常 新 能 源 为 市 区 16 电 力 站 额 外 检 查 魏 瑜 嶙 报 道 elynh@sph.com.sg 除 了 舞 台 上 绚 丽 夺 目 的 表 演 , 国 庆 庆 典 也 因 场 地 周 围 的 市 区 风 景 线 而 更 添 魅 力 , 让 观 众 在 为 国 家 庆 生 的 同 时 忆 起 新 加 坡 这 50 多 年 来 的 蓬 勃 发 展 。 今 年 的 国 庆 庆 典 在 政 府 大 厦 前 大 草 场 举 行 , 逢 新 加 坡 开 埠 200 年 , 回 到 这 个 我 国 1966 年 第 一 次 举 行 国 庆 庆 典 的 场 地 。 舞 台 面 对 着 新 加 坡 国 家 美 术 馆 , 四 周 则 有 滨 海 艺 术 中 心 和 莱 佛 士 坊 的 办 公 大 楼 围 绕 。 要 确 保 夜 间 风 景 线 不 灭 , 供 电 给 这 些 建 筑 和 附 近 街 道 的 新 能 源 集 团 今 年 5 月 至 6 月 间 , 花 了 两 个 月 为 市 区 内 的 16 个 电 力 站 进 行 额 外 检 查 。 带 领 团 队 的 新 能 源 高 级 工 程 师 李 永 达 (37 岁 ) 接 受 《 联 合 早 报 》 访 问 时 透 露 , 为 达 到 万 无 一 失 , 即 使 是 4 月 刚 检 查 过 的 电 力 站 也 必 须 重 新 检 查 。 他 们 调 派 了 近 20 名 员 工 , 查 看 电 缆 、 变 压 器 等 电 力 分 配 器 材 是 否 运 作 正 常 , 以 及 检 查 电 力 站 内 部 结 构 。 “ 除 了 为 国 庆 庆 典 做 准 备 , 我 们 仍 须 应 付 日 常 工 作 , 所 以 得 重 新 分 配 人 力 资 源 和 时 间 。” 大 草 场 采 “ 四 面 台 ” 设 计 , 其 中 一 部 分 的 观 众 席 , 包 括 总 理 、 部 长 、 议 员 、 外 国 贵 宾 的 座 位 设 在 国 家 美 术 馆 前 方 , 以 美 术 馆 为 背 景 承 托 场 地 的 气 势 。 至 于 舞 台 和 观 众 席 的 电 力 供 应 则 由 庆 典 主 办 方 负 责 。 为 确 保 建 筑 灯 火 通 明 , 李 永 达 和 工 作 人 员 自 7 月 6 日 举 行 第 四 场 彩 排 开 始 , 每 个 星 期 六 都 须 驻 守 现 场 ,16 个 电 力 站 其 中 一 个 就 设 在 国 家 美 术 馆 内 。 到 了 国 庆 当 天 , 新 能 源 还 会 加 派 四 人 看 守 其 他 电 力 站 。 李 永 达 解 释 , 一 般 上 若 某 个 电 力 站 的 电 流 供 应 出 问 题 , 工 作 人 员 会 先 通 过 远 程 遥 控 , 从 别 的 电 力 站 把 电 流 导 至 停 电 地 区 。 如 果 遥 控 方 式 行 不 通 , 他 们 会 亲 自 赶 到 现 场 处 理 , 可 是 这 得 花 约 一 个 小 时 。 派 工 作 人 员 驻 守 是 为 了 能 快 速 处 理 任 何 突 发 情 为 了 确 保 停 电 时 能 即 时 应 对 , 新 能 源 集 团 高 级 工 程 师 李 永 达 ( 左 二 ) 从 7 月 初 起 , 每 周 六 国 庆 彩 排 时 都 跟 其 他 工 程 师 一 起 在 国 家 美 术 馆 电 力 站 候 命 。( 龙 国 雄 摄 ) 况 。 “ 国 庆 庆 典 是 大 家 关 注 的 焦 点 , 我 们 希 望 一 切 能 顺 利 进 行 , 在 国 人 和 外 国 宾 客 面 前 展 现 最 好 的 一 面 , 不 会 因 为 某 栋 建 筑 停 电 让 观 众 感 到 混 乱 。” Source: Lianhe Zaobao © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Permission required for reproduction.

30 Mar 2016 For Immediate Release MEDIA RELEASE ELECTRICITY TARIFF REVISION FOR THE PERIOD 1 APRIL TO 30 JUNE 2016 1. For the period from 1 Apr to 30 Jun 2016, electricity tariffs will decrease by an average of 9.6% or 1.83 cents per kWh compared to the previous quarter. The tariff reduction is due to the lower cost of natural gas for electricity generation which fell by 20.2% compared to 1Q 2016. While network costs went up due to infrastructure investment to replace ageing assets and meet rising electricity demand, the lower cost of natural gas more than offset this increase. 2. For households, the electricity tariff will decrease from 19.50 to 17.68 cents per kWh for 1 Apr to 30 Jun 2016. The average monthly electricity bill for families living in four-room HDB flats will decrease by $6.71 (see Appendix 3 for the average monthly electricity bill for different household types). 3. SP Services reviews the electricity tariffs quarterly based on guidelines set by the Energy Market Authority (EMA), the electricity industry regulator. The tariffs given in Appendix 1 have been approved by the EMA. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Issued by: SP Services Limited 10 Pasir Panjang Road #03-01 Mapletree Business City Singapore 117438 Co. Reg No : 199504470N www.spservices.com.sg Appendix 1 ELECTRICITY TARIFFS FROM 1 APR 2016 Existing Tariff (without GST) New Tariff (without GST) New Tariff (with 7% GST) LOW TENSION SUPPLIES, DOMESTIC All units, ¢/kWh 19.50 17.68 18.92 LOW TENSION SUPPLIES, NON-DOMESTIC All units, ¢/kWh HIGH TENSION SMALL (HTS) SUPPLIES Contracted Capacity Charge $/kW/month Uncontracted Capacity Charge $/chargeable kW/month kWh charge, ¢/kWh Peak period (7.00am to 11.00pm) Off-peak period (11.00pm to 7.00am) Reactive power Charge ¢/chargeable kVARh HIGH TENSION LARGE (HTL) SUPPLIES Contracted Capacity Charge $/kW/month Uncontracted Capacity Charge $/chargeable kW/month kWh charge, ¢/kWh Peak period (7.00am to 11.00pm) Off-peak period (11.00pm to 7.00am) Reactive power Charge ¢/chargeable kVARh EXTRA HIGH TENSION (EHT) SUPPLIES Contracted Capacity Charge $/kW/month 19.50 17.68 18.92 8.15 8.36 8.95 12.23 12.54 13.42 16.59 14.50 15.52 10.08 8.78 9.39 0.59 0.59 0.63 8.15 8.36 8.95 12.23 12.54 13.42 16.37 14.28 15.28 10.07 8.77 9.38 0.59 0.59 0.63 7.38 7.54 8.07 Uncontracted Capacity Charge $/chargeable kW/month kWh charge, ¢/kWh Peak period (7.00am to 11.00pm) Off-peak period (11.00pm to 7.00am) Reactive power Charge ¢/chargeable kVARh 11.07 11.31 12.10 15.52 13.45 14.39 9.99 8.69 9.30 0.48 0.48 0.51 Appendix 2 BREAKDOWN OF ELECTRICITY TARIFF 1. The electricity tariff consists of the following four components: a) Energy costs (paid to the generation companies): This component is adjusted quarterly to reflect changes in the cost of power generation. b) Network costs (paid to SP PowerAssets): This fee is reviewed annually. c) Market Support Services Fee (paid to SP Services): This fee is reviewed annually. d) Market Administration and Power System Operation Fee (paid to Energy Market Company and Power System Operator): This fee is reviewed annually to recover the costs of operating the electricity wholesale market and power system. Q2 2016 TARIFF Market Admin & PSO Fee 0.05¢/kWh (<1%) MSS Fee 0.17¢/kWh (1%) Network Costs 5.30¢/kWh (30%) Energy Costs 12.16¢/kWh (69%) Appendix 3 AVERAGE MONTHLY ELECTRICITY BILLS OF DOMESTIC CUSTOMERS (TARIFF WEF 1 APRIL 2016) Types of Premises Average monthly consumption per Customer Average Monthly Bill New Average Monthly Bill Average Decrease in Monthly Bill kWh $(a) $(b) $(b-a) % HDB 1 Room 133.61 26.05 23.62 (2.43) (9.3) HDB 2 Room 186.10 36.29 32.90 (3.39) (9.3) HDB 3 Room 273.46 53.32 48.35 (4.97) (9.3) HDB 4 Room 368.51 71.86 65.15 (6.71) (9.3) HDB 5 Room 426.90 83.25 75.48 (7.77) (9.3) HDB Executive 528.87 103.13 93.50 (9.63) (9.3) Apartment 550.59 107.37 97.34 (10.03) (9.3) Terrace 925.92 180.55 163.70 (16.85) (9.3) Semi-Detached 1,200.25 234.05 212.20 (21.85) (9.3) Bungalow 2,310.46 450.54 408.49 (42.05) (9.3) Average 443.42 86.47 78.40 (8.07) (9.3)