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More can apply to be licensed electricians and gas service workers

SINGAPORE – The Energy Market Authority (EMA) announced today (Oct 28) that it will be simplifying some 70 rules to reduce costs and enhance flexibility for businesses. These changes will benefit electricity and gas licensees, and also consumers via lower compliance costs and improved service standards.

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SINGAPORE – The Energy Market Authority (EMA) announced today (Oct 28) that it will be simplifying some 70 rules to reduce costs and enhance flexibility for businesses. These changes will benefit electricity and gas licensees, and also consumers via lower compliance costs and improved service standards.

Among the enhancements, one of them would make it easier for electricians and gas service workers to obtain a licence. The EMA will allow any person with at least 10 years of relevant local experience in electrical of gas service work to apply for a license. The change will take place from February next year.

Currently, an electrician licensee must possess a National Technical Certificate along with two years of practical experience relevant to electrical work while a gas service licensee must hold a Builder Certificate in Plumbing and Pipefitting issued by the Building and Construction Authority along with two years of relevant experience as well. “This will benefit workers who have the relevant skills and expertise, but did not have the opportunity to obtain formal academic qualifications,” the statement said.

However, applicants will still be required to pass an interview and proficiency tests “to maintain safety standards,” said the EMA.

Mr Nachiappan R K Sinniah, General Secretary of Union of Power and Gas Employees (UPAGE) expressed his delight at the move and said that the pool of talent in the energy sector will increase as a result.

“This is a good move by EMA and it is in line with what the union has been pursuing. This development will allow the skills and experiences of our workers to remain relevant and recognised, keeping them employable for a longer period of time,” he said.

 

CORRECTION: In an earlier version of this story, we reported that the Energy Market Authority is streamlining about 70 rules and requirements to make it easier for electricians and gas service workers to apply for the required licences. This is incorrect. One of the enhancements will make it easier for electricians and gas service workers to apply for the required licences. We are sorry for the error.

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