Sembcorp, IHI, GE Vernova join forces to decarbonise Singapore's power sector

Sembcorp Industries, IHI Corporation and GE Vernova have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly explore the potential retrofitting of Sembcorp's 600MW gas-fired Sakra power plant in Singapore with ammonia-firing capabilities, Sembcorp said on October 23.

This partnership is an extension of an earlier MoU between Sembcorp and IHI in 2022 to explore decarbonisation pathways for the power and industrial sector, in particular ammonia direct combustion systems. The partnership also builds upon a separate cooperation between IHI and GE Vernova on developing a retrofittable, 100% ammonia-capable combustion system that is compatible with specific GE Vernova turbine models.

The project will potentially assist Sembcorp to generate low-carbon energy from its existing power plant assets and support Singapore’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and decarbonise the power sector, the company said.

Ammonia is a low-carbon fuel that can be used to replace fossil fuels in power generation. It has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the power sector.