Singapore’s Surbana Jurong Group (SJ) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with South Korea’s Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co Ltd (Hyundai E&C) to explore opportunities in renewable energy, construction technology, and infrastructure related to small modular reactors (SMR). The MOU ceremony was part of the Singapore-Korea Business Forum that took place on 8 October 2024 in Singapore.

This strategic partnership leverages the respective strengths and expertise of Hyundai E&C and SJ to advance sustainable practices within the built environment industry while addressing global energy challenges. Hyundai E&C is renowned for its extensive track record in construction, while SJ has extensive experience in multidisciplinary consultancy services across the built environment and energy sector, including clean fuels, new energies, energy transition, engineering and project management.

Key objectives of the MOU include:

1). Exploration of collaborative projects: Hyundai E&C and SJ will jointly identify potential projects within the realms of renewable energy and infrastructure.

2). Research and development: Hyundai E&C and SJ will jointly undertake R&D initiatives focusing on low-carbon business practices and innovative construction technologies, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction (PPVC).

3). Cooperation on infrastructure technology: The MOU outlines plans for general cooperation in infrastructure technology, including construction automation or robotics, collaborative workshops, training programmes, and technical support.

4). SMR: Hyundai E&C and SJ will also collaborate on opportunities related to SMR technologies, an area critical for Singapore’s future needs.

“The transition to net zero is underway, but it’s not happening fast enough, and the demand for resilient infrastructure has never been greater,” said Sean Chiao, SJ’s group chief executive officer. “By joining forces, Hyundai E&C and SJ aim to push the boundaries of sustainable practices in the built environment and address global energy challenges head-on. SJ’s multidisciplinary consultancy, deeply rooted in sustainability, combined with Hyundai E&C’s world-class engineering and construction expertise, will drive innovation in clean energy solutions and advanced construction technologies, paving the way for a greener, more resilient future.”

A representative from Hyundai E&C stated, “Since entering the Singapore construction market in 1981, Hyundai E&C has actively contributed to the country’s economic development through major infrastructure projects, including the construction of Changi International Airport, Marina One, South Beach, and Southeast Asia’s largest underground substation. With this business partnership with SJ, a leading built environment consultancy with a long track record of successful project delivery, we will make every effort to accelerate Singapore’s energy transition based on the strengthened collaboration network at both the government and group levels and the trust we have built with the Singapore government and clients.”