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Government offices adjust cooling standards
Singapore has instructed public-sector employees to set office air-conditioning to at least 25°C (77°F) as the city-state confronts soaring energy costs driven by the Iran war. The move follows similar measures across Southeast Asia, where nations are grappling with disrupted fuel supplies.
Energy-saving measures rolled out
In addition to raising thermostat settings, government buildings will adopt power-efficient technologies such as LED lighting and smart sensors. Authorities estimate that each degree increase in temperature reduces energy consumption by approximately 10%.
The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment announced the initiative on April 8, framing it as a leadership effort to mitigate the impact of global fuel shortages. Employees are also being encouraged to use fans instead of air-conditioning where possible and to rely on public transport to further cut fuel demand.
Regional ripple effects
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for oil and gas shipments, has been effectively closed since the outbreak of the Iran war, straining energy supplies across Asia. Singapore, which sources about two-thirds of its crude oil from the Middle East, has so far avoided tapping its fuel reserves or imposing rationing measures.
Neighboring countries have taken more drastic steps. The Philippines declared a national energy emergency in March after petrol prices more than doubled, shortening the workweek for government employees and mandating electricity and fuel cuts. Thailand has urged offices to adopt remote work and instructed citizens to set air-conditioning to 26-27°C while promoting carpooling and public transport.
South Korea, which imports over two-thirds of its energy from the Gulf, has launched a public campaign encouraging shorter showers and weekend-only washing machine use.
Air-conditioning's legacy in Singapore
Singapore's reliance on artificial cooling dates back to its post-colonial transformation under Lee Kuan Yew, the country's first prime minister. Lee, who died in 2015, famously credited air-conditioning with revolutionizing productivity in tropical climates, stating that installing it in government buildings was his first priority upon taking office.
"The first thing I did upon becoming prime minister was to install air conditioners in buildings where the civil service worked. This was key to public efficiency."
Lee Kuan Yew, former Prime Minister of Singapore
Today, air-conditioning is ubiquitous in Singapore, from offices and shopping malls to public transport and homes. Many residents keep units running overnight, and some workers even bring sweaters to combat overly chilled workplaces. The country's climate-controlled environment contrasts sharply with other Southeast Asian cities, where open-air markets and streets remain common.
Economic and environmental concerns
Analysts warn that the energy crisis could have long-term consequences for Asia's developing economies. Ichiro Kutani of Japan's Institute of Energy Economics described the fallout as an "Asian crisis," noting that countries with high petrol car usage and gas-dependent households are particularly vulnerable.
Kutani emphasized the need for regional diversification of energy sources and improved efficiency, calling the current situation a "tough lesson" for Asia. Meanwhile, Singapore's government has urged businesses and citizens to adopt energy-saving practices, warning of further economic disruptions if the conflict persists.
