US-Iran War Claims New Victim, Singapore Surrenders

Singapore has finally ‘surrendered’. Residents will pay higher electricity and gas tariffs in the third quarter (Q3), from July to September. The announcement was made by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) on Tuesday (30/6/2026). This is driven by the US-Iran war in the Middle East, which has pushed up energy production costs in the city-state.

Citing Channel News Asia (CNA), state-owned energy utility company SP Group said the household electricity tariff from July to September will be 4.64 cents per kWh. The electricity price will be 31.91 cents per kWh for July to September.

Based on SP Group data, the average monthly household electricity bill for a four-room Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat in Singapore is currently S$100.74 (approximately Rp1,389,205). This figure is expected to increase to S$117.88 (approximately Rp1,629,754) from July to September.

This may not be the first increase for Singapore residents. SP Group previously stated that electricity tariffs in subsequent quarters are expected to rise further as the full impact of higher natural gas prices is factored into tariff calculations.

EMA said the situation in the Middle East ‘remains uncertain’. However, it added that if conditions improve, lower fuel prices could in turn lead to lower electricity and town gas tariffs in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Set Air Conditioners to 25 Degrees Celsius

Meanwhile, residents have been asked to consider several options to save on electricity costs. One is setting air conditioners to a moderate temperature, such as 25 degrees Celsius or higher. Residents were also asked to switch off lights or appliances when not in use and to start choosing energy-efficient appliances.

‘This not only helps reduce household electricity bills but also contributes to Singapore’s energy resilience,’ EMA said.

Singapore is heavily reliant on imported energy, with about 95% of its electricity generated from imported natural gas.