Energy Efficiency in Singapore's Rapid Transit System

The Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) comprises the North South, East West and North East lines, linking seamlessly to Light Rail Systems, namely, Bukit Panjang, Sengkang and Punggol LRTs. After the Circle Line Extension opened in Jan 2012, the total rail length in Singapore has reached 178km. The transport sector is one of the major energy consumers in Singapore. With increasing global energy demand, greater effort is thus required to make effective use of energy. In addition, the Singapore RTS network will double by year 2020. Hence, it is crucial that every effort is made in the design of the RTS to improve energy efficiency in order to achieve a sustainable land transport system. This paper describes the various strategies adopted in the design of the Singapore RTS to reduce energy demand during operations.