Sentosa and Pulau Hantu Besar are two of Singapore’s most popular tourist spots. The Southern Islands are getting ready to meet their own power and water needs, which is good for the environment. Kusu Island is known for being creative and using solar power. This big plan came about after a project there went well.
the Southern Island: Kusu Island’s Win in the Sun
Kusu Island was the first place in the world to get all of its power from the sun. This progress was made as part of a S$2 million project that commenced in 2019 and will end in 2020. There are more than 350 solar panels carefully placed in the tidal pond next to the well-known Da Bo Gong Temple. Kusu Island has only used clean energy for the past two years.
The Southern Islands: We need clean energy for everyone.
Diesel engines are no longer used on Kusu Island. Instead, the island gets its power from the sun, which gives it more than 230 megawatt-hours of energy every year. This eco-friendly way not only powers the island, but it also removes 96 tons of carbon dioxide from the air every year. Everything changes when the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) work together.
Dr. Narasimalu Srikanth, who is in charge of the program at NTU, said that the solar panels were placed in the island’s ponds on purpose so that they would get the most use without taking up any valuable land. For every square foot of space these panels take up, 10 to 15% less energy is used than panels that are built on the ground.
The Southern Islands: Style that is good for the environment
Each part of this project takes into account how it will affect the world. It is safe for fish and turtles to move under the solar panels because they were made with paint that is safe for marine life. The batteries store the electricity that is made and is used to power the main desalination system, the toilets, the temple, and the dock.
From the sea to the water we drink
The desalination system on Kusu Island turns seawater into drinkable water through reverse osmosis. With this method, 140 people can get clean water every day. Since this is a big step forward, similar projects can begin next year in Pulau Hantu Besar. The water is still being checked often to make sure it meets safety standards.
Not having to use diesel engines and boats
For many years, the only ways for the Southern Islands, like Pulau Hantu Besar, to get water and electricity were through water boats and gasoline engines. The Singapore Land Authority and NTU worked together because prices were going up and there had to be daily checks. This has led to the study, creation, and use of solar power and water desalination devices that are renewable. This is a big step toward sustainability.
As more and more eco-friendly technologies make waves, the Southern Islands will soon be shining models of how to live on your own. There will be enough water and energy for even heaven, as shown by these people.
