Electricity in Hong Kong SAR China in 2023
In 2023, Hong Kong SAR China heavily relies on fossil fuels for its electricity consumption, with about three-quarters of the electricity coming from these sources. The predominant fossil fuel is gas, comprising nearly half of the total share, while coal accounts for almost a third. Among the remaining sources, net imports contribute to roughly a quarter of the electricity supply, indicating a significant reliance on external sources. Unfortunately, the role of clean, low-carbon energy sources in the local electricity mix is virtually absent, suggesting that a shift away from fossil fuels towards sustainable alternatives is needed to address environmental concerns such as climate change and air pollution.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Hong Kong SAR China can look towards successful examples from other countries. France and Slovakia generate over half of their electricity from nuclear energy, demonstrating stability and reliability in their power grids. South Korea, sharing an urban density and developmental similarities with Hong Kong, generates approximately 30% of its electricity from nuclear energy, serving as a direct and practical model for Hong Kong to consider. Meanwhile, wind power has been highly successful in Denmark, where it accounts for more than half of their electricity, demonstrating the feasibility of implementing large-scale wind energy solutions in regions with suitable conditions. Adopting these approaches can significantly reduce dependency on fossil fuels while further boosting energy security.
History
Historically, Hong Kong has shown a minimal shift towards low-carbon electricity generation. Between 2006 and 2013, efforts involving wind and biofuels did not result in any substantial change in electricity generation. From 2019 onward, there was a minor increase in biofuels and solar energy, but progress remains modest, with incremental solar energy generation noted in 2021 and 2022. There has been no significant presence or expansion in these years for wind or nuclear energy, pointing to a missed opportunity to diversify and modernize its electricity infrastructure. To secure a sustainable energy future, it is crucial for Hong Kong to re-evaluate its historical trends and prioritize the expansion of nuclear, wind, and solar power.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.