In 2023, electricity consumption in Hong Kong SAR China relies heavily on fossil fuels, with over three-quarters of electricity generated from these sources. Specifically, gas contributes nearly half, while coal accounts for just over a quarter of the electricity mix. On the other hand, clean electricity sources contribute to a minimal fraction. Notably, the contribution from net imports, which may include low-carbon electricity, covers almost a quarter of the demand. The exorbitant reliance on fossil fuels underscores a pressing need for diversifying the electricity generation mix towards more sustainable sources, such as solar and nuclear energy, to combat the adverse effects of climate change and reduce air pollution.

Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Hong Kong SAR China?

Despite global advancements in technology and clean energy, electricity consumption in Hong Kong SAR China shows a worrying trend of decline. The recent figures, amounting to 6615 kWh per person in 2023, are slightly lower than the historic peak reached in 2012 at 6772 kWh per person. This decline, though moderate at -157 kWh per person, raises concerns about stagnation amidst growing global electrification needs. However, in a slight positive turn, low-carbon electricity generation did increase by 4 kWh per person from 2022 to 2023. It is vital to address this overall stagnation with invigorated efforts towards expanding clean energy to meet future demands.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Hong Kong SAR China can draw lessons from regions that have achieved substantial progress. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia thrive on nuclear power, producing over two-thirds of their electricity from this low-carbon source. In parallel, adopting strategies from states like New Mexico and California could enhance solar energy penetration significantly, as these regions achieve impressive solar generation contributions. By expanding solar and nuclear capacity, Hong Kong SAR China can pioneer in clean energy transition, fostering a sustainable environment and economy that symbolizes ecological progress.

History

Examining the history of low-carbon electricity development in Hong Kong SAR China reveals a path of minimal advancement. From 2006 through the 2010s, there was negligible increase in wind or biofuel electricity production. It wasn't until the late 2010s and early 2020s that minor gains were noted in solar and biofuel sectors, culminating in slight increases reported in 2019, 2021, and 2022. However, this progress remains inadequate, especially as no significant gains were registered in 2023. Considering these moderate accomplishments, there is a substantial opportunity to revitalize the clean energy trajectory, prioritizing nuclear and solar energy to break away from the current dependence on fossil fuels and passively growing biofuels generation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade