China Guangdong Nuclear Power Holding Corp. (CGNPC) held a groundbreaking ceremony in Singapore on Tuesday to establish an integrated biomass-solar power generation plant and its regional headquarters, setting a milestone for the cleantech industry.

The $33.6 million investment project (Phase I) is fuelled by wood and horticultural waste, as well as solar installation on the rooftop. This 10-megawatt facility will play a significant role as Singapore moves towards being a greener and cleaner city.

This facility is the first overseas project developed and implemented by CGNPC. Being the regional headquarters, the plant affirms Singapore's strategic position as the gateway to the clean energy market in Asia Pacific.

"We are excited that CGNPC, a leading Chinese clean energy corporation, has chosen Singapore for this landmark cleantech investment and also to internationalize its business. With our multinational business community, highly-skilled workforce, strong focus on innovation and intellectual property protection, Singapore is well-placed to serve as a strategic base for Chinese cleantech companies to orchestrate their regional and global business activities," Tan Choon Shian, acting managing director of Singapore Economic Development Board, said.

"We are confident that this would pave the way for many more Asian cleantech enterprises to grow their international footprint in Singapore," he said.

"Singapore is an ideal gateway for companies keen to develop clean energy solutions tailored for Asia, given its robust supply chain capabilities and connections to the region. This facility will aim to meet the energy needs of Singapore as part of our ongoing efforts to provide clean energy for the benefit of humanity," said Tan Jiansheng, senior vice president of CGNPC.

This plant is expected to be completed by November 2013.

(Xinhua News Agency May 8, 2012)