SINGAPORE — A new facility aimed at training students and professionals in energy efficiency assessments was launched on Feb 9 at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) Punggol Campus.

The Energy Efficiency Training Facility provides students and industry professionals with a controlled environment to acquire practical energy audit skills without disrupting live operations. 

It is part of the Energy Efficiency Technology Centre (EETC), a collaboration between SIT and the National Environmental Agency (NEA).

The training facility is the first of its kind in Singapore, with comprehensive industrial systems that simulate real-world manufacturing conditions found in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It will be able to train 400 professionals and students annually. 

Energy efficiency is achieved when technologies and designs use less energy while providing the same or a better output, and is a cost-effective measure for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, according to the United Nations Environment Programme. 

Previously, students would mainly receive training during lectures, said SIT President, Professor Chua Kee Chaing. Occasionally, training programmes would also be conducted at SIT’s satellite campuses across the five local polytechnics. 

But with the new 430-sq m training facility, roughly the size of five 4-room HDB flats, participants can gain hands-on experience using industrial systems typically found in the manufacturing sector.

Speaking at the launch, Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Dr Janil Puthucheary said: “The launch of the Energy Efficiency Training Facility today marks a pivotal and exciting step towards improving our energy efficiency outcomes in Singapore.” 

“By combining classroom learning with real-world industrial practices, this new facility enhances the readiness of professionals and students to better support