AI meets sustainability: Singapore firms lead the way

SINGAPORE – The Sustainable Energy Association of Singapore has announced the launch of DigiLeap, an artificial intelligence-powered platform designed to enhance efforts in decarbonisation. KPMG in Singapore served as the knowledge and technical partner of SEAS.

Unveiled at COP29, DigiLeap aims to function as a sustainability services and solutions marketplace accessible to the ASEAN region.

The platform uses advanced AI matchmaking to bridge the investment gap by connecting solution seekers with providers in sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives. 

“The DigiLeap platform is essential in transforming climate ambitions into actionable decarbonisation for Singapore companies,” said Kavita Gandhi, Executive Director, SEAS.

“Aligned with Singapore’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, DigiLeap is a vital marketplace enabling businesses seeking solutions to connect with providers of advanced and scalable solutions, creating a seamless and innovative environment for sustainable progress. The platform fosters an environment where Singapore companies, both established and emerging, can play a definitive role in creating eco-solutions together.”

DigiLeap aligns with COP29 priorities by focusing on mobilising climate finance for actionable green projects.

The marketplace currently hosts over 10 green projects and supports connections among more than 200 enterprises across ASEAN, with ambitions to expand and support thousands of initiatives to accelerate the region’s transition to net-zero.

KPMG played a significant role in the design and development of DigiLeap, equipping it with AI capabilities to facilitate connections between solution seekers and providers. This helps businesses access green technologies and sustainable financing solutions more effectively. The platform promotes a data-sharing environment and offers streamlined access to resources, aiding Singapore’s progression towards its net-zero commitments. Additionally, KPMG leveraged its extensive network to introduce strategic partners, enhancing the platform’s ecosystem and global reach.

Also Read: COP29: The business of climate finance

Widespread industry support

The DigiLeap initiative has received backing from Enterprise Singapore and the Asian Development Bank.

SEAS has also partnered with organisations such as SGTech, Global Compact Network Singapore, Singapore International Chamber of Commerce, National Trade Union Congress , and the Singapore Business Federation.

These entities will support collaboration and resource sharing on DigiLeap, with a significant increase in business participation anticipated by the end of 2025.

The platform focuses on sustainable and decarbonisation projects valued below US$10 million, targeting areas such as:

• Renewable energy
• Smart grid technology
• Industrial decarbonisation
• Green construction

These initiatives aim to promote cleaner power solutions, improve resource efficiency, and foster energy-efficient infrastructure.

Sharad Somani, Partner and Head of ESG Consulting at KPMG in Singapore, added: “DigiLeap addresses critical barriers companies face in their sustainability journeys, including access to proven technological solutions, innovative green financing, and effective programme management – particularly for smaller-scale sustainability projects.

“By leveraging advanced AI and sophisticated project-matching algorithms, the platform aligns with COP29’s climate finance goals by empowering businesses with direct access to renewable energy solutions, technological propositions, and alternative financing options. DigiLeap embodies the shared commitment to making decarbonisation accessible, measurable, and transformative for businesses.”

Climate financing opportunities in APAC

At the recently concluded COP29, countries remained divided over the details of their collective financing goal. Representatives agreed on a $300 billion annual target to addressing the climate crisis by 2035.

Countries in ASEAN, such as the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, remain vulnerable to the adverse effects of a warming planet. Investing in solutions that build climate resilience is highly necessary, experts say.

“The Asia-Pacific region is at the epicentre of both climate impact and opportunity,” said Lauren Chung, APAC CEO at the advisory firm Teneo.

“In many ways, businesses in Asia-Pacific are uniquely positioned to innovate solutions for both the region and the world.“