Hot in the city: Energy crisis tests Singapore's air-con addiction

Singapore, known for its heavy air-conditioning use, is implementing energy-saving measures in response to rising energy prices caused by the Iran war. Government employees are instructed to set office air conditioning to at least 25C and utilize energy-efficient technology like LED lights. This action aligns with similar efforts in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand's temperature guidelines, due to the region's reliance on oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which is impacted by the war. Singapore's widespread air-conditioning, credited by its founding father Lee Kuan Yew for boosting productivity, is now being re-evaluated as the government takes the lead in energy conservation. The initiative aims to mitigate the impact of global fuel supply chain disruptions.

In response to the ongoing fuel crisis and rising energy costs, Singapore is implementing measures to reduce electricity consumption in government facilities. Effective immediately, air-conditioning temperatures in public spaces will be set at 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. The government will also manage operating times for air-conditioning, lighting, and lifts, and ensure non-essential equipment is switched off when not in use. The Ministry of Sustainability and Environment (MSE) and National Environment Agency (NEA) announced these steps on Wednesday, April 9, 2026, as part of a broader effort to enhance the nation's energy resilience amidst global energy supply constraints caused by conflict in the Middle East. Agencies will also expedite the installation of energy-efficient systems and replace older equipment with more efficient alternatives.