What are the Jurong Rock Caverns and why do they matter to Singapore’s energy security?

Why does it matter amid the Middle East war?

The facility has taken on added importance as geopolitical tensions affect global energy flows.

The war in the Middle East has disrupted key shipping routes, contributing to higher oil and gas prices. 

After his visit to the JRC on Monday with Dr Tan, Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing said: “We are seeing first-hand how disruptions to energy and supply chains can happen anytime.”

He added that this is why Singapore continues to expand its stockpiles, diversify energy sources and explore low-carbon solutions for the future.

“Facilities like the Jurong Rock Caverns are part of how we plan ahead for Singapore’s future,” he said.

Other underground facilities in Singapore

Singapore’s use of underground space goes beyond oil storage, and is part of a broader strategy to optimise land use while supporting infrastructure needs.

The Underground Ammunition Facility at Mandai Quarry was completed in 2008. Moving storage underground freed up 300 hectares of land and at the same time, improved safety and energy efficiency due to natural granite insulation. 

Looking ahead, the government is studying the feasibility of building an underground cavern at Gali Batu in Sungei Kadut to store construction materials, said Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat at the Professor Chen Charng Ning Distinguished Lecture Series last month. 

Such a project would involve complex engineering challenges, including excavation, structural support, ventilation and the coordination of underground logistics, added Mr Chee.

Another example is SP Group’s underground substation at Labrador. The project features a 230kV electrical substation built below ground, with a 34-storey commercial tower above it, making it the first such integrated development in Southeast Asia.