Empowering Charities to Decarbonise through the Sembcorp Energy for Good Fund's Solarisation Programme

Sembcorp Industries (Sembcorp) and Boys’ Town today celebrated the commissioning of a 95kWp solar energy system installed on the roof of Boys’ Town, marking a significant step in advancing sustainability within the charity sector. Sponsored by Sembcorp, the rooftop solar installation will reduce Boys’ Town’s annual energy consumption by around 20%, translating into an estimated annual savings of S$34,000 on current energy costs.

At the unveiling ceremony, Mr Bruno Lopez, Chairperson of Boys’ Town, unveiled a commemorative plaque recognising Sembcorp’s vital role in supporting the solarisation project. The event also highlighted the shared commitment of both organisations to promote sustainability and empower local communities. In attendance were Mr Robert Chong, Chief Corporate & Human Resource Officer of Sembcorp, and Ms Christine Ong, Chairperson of Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS).

In his remarks, Mr Chong commented, “We are proud to support Boys’ Town in adopting solar energy as part of their power sources through the Sembcorp Energy for Good Fund’s (SEfG) Solarisation Programme. This programme will support charities on their decarbonisation journeys while creating lasting benefits for them and the communities they serve. By helping the charities adopt solar energy, cost savings from energy use can be reinvested into their core missions. As a leading renewables player in Asia, Sembcorp is committed to fostering a just energy transition for all.”

Dr Roland Yeow, Executive Director of Boys’ Town, also shared his thoughts on the project, “The commissioning of this solar energy system is an important step in our commitment to environmental responsibility. It reduces our energy costs and provides us with a structured pathway for integrating environment, social and governance (ESG) principles into our operations. Embracing solar energy is a key step in our broader ESG strategy. By adopting best practices, we enhance stakeholder engagement and position ourselves as a strong partner for corporate donors committed to ESG values.” 

Ms Christine Ong, Chairperson of CFS, remarked, "The SEfG Solarisation Programme is a powerful example of what can be achieved when organisations share a vision for a sustainable future. We are deeply appreciative of Sembcorp's commitment to empowering charities through renewable energy, and honoured to partner with them on this journey. We look forward to bridging them to more charities and a long and fruitful partnership that continues to make a real difference."

A Call for Charities to Join the SEfG Solarisation Programme

Charities across Singapore are increasingly recognising the dual benefits of decarbonisation – not only in terms of reducing their environmental footprint but also enhancing financial sustainability. The SEfG Solarisation Programme offers a practical pathway for eligible charities to install solar energy systems, helping them reduce operating costs while advancing global climate action.

About the SEfG Solarisation Programme

The SEfG Solarisation Programme plays a pivotal role in supporting eligible charities with the resources necessary to install solar energy systems. This initiative helps these organisations move towards cleaner, renewable energy, aligning with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030, which aims to cut emissions and accelerate the adoption of sustainable energy solutions. By making the shift to solar power, the programme supports the transition to a more sustainable energy future, reducing environmental impact while fostering resilience for the charities.

By participating in the programme, charities gain access to sustainable energy solutions that helps lower operational costs and contribute to the broader decarbonisation efforts. The programme also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Clean Energy), advocating for universal access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all.

Key Benefits of Participation in the SEfG Solarisation Programme:

• Governance and Compliance: Align with the Charities Unit’s Code of Governance, including recommendations on Environmental, Social, and Governance factors.
• Decarbonisation: Decrease reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions, directly contributing to global climate action.
• Environmental Impact: Support Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 by adopting clean energy solutions.
• Cost Savings: Lower energy expenses, enabling more funds to be directed towards charitable work.

Get Involved

Charities in Singapore interested in embarking on their decarbonisation journey are encouraged to reach out for more information on the SEfG Solarisation Programme. For inquiries, please contact [email protected] at CFS.

About Sembcorp Industries

Sembcorp Industries is a leading global integrated energy and urban solutions provider. With a strong focus on renewable energy and sustainability, Sembcorp is committed to driving a green energy transition that is both equitable and inclusive. The company provides innovative solutions in areas such as clean energy, water, and urban development, helping customers transition to a low-carbon future.

About Sembcorp Energy for Good Fund

Launched in 2020, the Sembcorp Energy for Good Fund (SEfG) is a donor-advised fund established at Community Foundation of Singapore. The fund is designed to help charities and community organisations in Singapore reduce their carbon emissions and embrace sustainable practices. Through the SEfG’s multi-pronged approach which includes green education, green infrastructure and green capability building, charities can access initiatives that enhance their sustainability capabilities, such as the SEfG Solarisation Programme.

About Boys’ Town

Boys’ Town is a multi-service children and youth social service agency dedicated to the holistic development of children and youth in need. The organisation provides a range of services, including residential care, fostering services, respite care, clinical intervention, youth outreach and adventure programmes, to help children and youth in need become socially integrated, responsible and contributing members of society.

About Community Foundation of Singapore

Established in 2008, Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) is the nation's oldest community foundation, dedicated to effecting tangible change and advancing philanthropy across Singapore. CFS employs a consultative and outcome-centred approach to assist donors in achieving their philanthropic goals. Committed to the transformative power of collaboration, the foundation has established partnerships with government ministries, agencies, corporations, and over 400 charities and non-profit organisations. Through the strategic disbursement of grants, donors support impactful programmes that cover a diverse array of causes. CFS was the first to introduce donor-advised funds (DAFs) to Singapore and is the largest holder of DAFs in the country. As at December 2024, the foundation has raised over S$337 million in donations, including legacy gifts, and disbursed over S$197 million in grants. Visit us at www.cf.org.sg to learn more. 

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