Power Socket, Plug, and Voltage in Singapore

In Singapore, the standard voltage for electrical supply is 230 volts, with an alternating current frequency of 50 hertz. The country operates on a Type G plug system, similar to the United Kingdom. The Singapore Standard SS 638, which is based on the British Standard BS 7671, allows for a 6% variation in the supply voltage, meaning the actual voltage can range from 216.2 volts to 243.8 volts. Additionally, the frequency of the alternating current can vary by 1%, allowing a range from 49.5 to 50.5 hertz. This standard ensures that all electrical devices in Singapore can operate safely and effectively within these parameters.

Voltage

The standard electrical voltage in Singapore is 230 volts at a nominal frequency of 50 hertz with a variation of plus or minus 6% in the power supply as stated in the Singapore Electricity (Electrical Installations) Regulations.

If you have are travelling into Singapore with equipment that runs on a lower voltage, you should not connect it to a power socket without a voltage adaptor, also known as a transformer.

Power plugs and sockets

BS 1363 (Type G) plugs and sockets are used in Singapore, the same type that is used in the United Kingdom. These are three-pronged plugs that consist of two horizontal rectangular pins for live and neutral connections, and an above longer vertical pin for the earth connection.

This type of plug is robust and designed with safety features like shutters on the sockets to prevent accidental contact with live parts, making it an ideal choice for the high safety standards upheld in Singapore.

Does my plug fit into power sockets in Singapore?

Plugs from the United States, Eastern and Western Europe, and most of Asia cannot be plugged into a power socket in Singapore without a travel adaptor. 

Plugs from Bahrain, Hong Kong, Ireland, Malaysia, Malta, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, and UAE can be plugged into a power socket in Singapore without a travel adaptor, but might become damaged without a transformer.

Other power plugs and sockets

BS 546 (Type M) plugs and sockets are used for higher power applications such as air-conditioners and heavy kitchen equipment and have their own individual electrical circuit. You are not likely to find these plugs and sockets in public areas and hotels.

BS 4573 (Type C) plugs and sockets can also be found. This socket is only found in bathroom shaver supply units that contain an isolating transformer. This plug can be found in some appliances, and locals commonly force them directly into BS 1363 (Type G) sockets without an adaptor.

Safety Regulations

The use of standardized plugs and sockets in Singapore is governed by strict regulations to ensure electrical safety. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) oversees these regulations, ensuring that all electrical appliances sold and used in Singapore meet the required safety standards. Compliance with these standards minimizes the risk of electrical fires and other accidents, thereby protecting public safety.