Electricity in Hong Kong SAR China in 2022

In 2022, Hong Kong SAR China primarily relied on fossil fuels for electricity, with more than half of its energy consumption coming from this source. Specifically, gas accounted for nearly 45% and coal for about 29%. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources represented a significantly smaller share of the mix. Net imports, which can include a mix of energy types but often involve clean energy sources, made up close to a quarter of the electricity supply. The data highlights a strong dependency on fossil fuels, which have known adverse effects on the environment, including air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, thus suggesting a need for a transition towards more sustainable energy solutions.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Hong Kong SAR China can take lessons from successful countries with high shares of nuclear and wind energy. France, for example, derives almost 70% of its electricity from nuclear power, demonstrating how a robust nuclear infrastructure can lead to substantial low-carbon energy production. Similarly, Denmark’s success with wind energy, providing almost 60% of their electricity, illustrates the potential of this clean source. Given its geographical proximity and developed infrastructure, Hong Kong might find South Korea’s model beneficial, where 31% of electricity is from nuclear. By investing in both nuclear and wind technologies, Hong Kong can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and ensure a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

History

Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Hong Kong SAR China has been minimal, as seen in recorded data spanning the early 2000s to the 2020s. During this period, there have been negligible advancements in wind, biofuels, and solar electricity generation, often recording zero increases or slight advancements too trivial to drive significant change. For example, biofuels made a small uptick in 2019 but remained largely unchanged otherwise. Such stagnation in low-carbon initiatives suggests an essential area for policy focus and development. To meet future sustainability goals, Hong Kong should proactively invest in nuclear, wind, and solar energy to break away from its historical pattern of reliance on fossil fuels.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources