We need more ambitious target for renewable energy in HK
It has been suggested that WWF build and manage CLP Power's proposed offshore wind farm.
We are pleased to see CLP's project is progressing. Additional measures still need to be taken to adequately address the potential impact to birds and fisheries.
Opportunities in Hong Kong for large-scale renewable energy projects are limited, so the importance of this project as a part of a suite of solutions for Hong Kong to reduce its carbon emissions and address climate change should not be underestimated. One of our concerns is that the Hong Kong government does not have a comprehensive or regional energy strategy to guide the power sector in terms of its fuel mix and to encourage both infrastructure and renewable energy development.
To meet our chief executive's stated objective to transform Hong Kong into a low-carbon economy requires both demand-side management through increased energy efficiency and supply-side management in the form of increased renewable energy sources resulting in decreased reliance on coal. Optimisation of energy use requires we tackle both sides of the equation. Climate change will only be resolved through balanced energy strategies and policies.
WWF believes that 5-10 per cent of Hong Kong's electricity must be generated from renewable sources by 2020. We need a sound policy and incentives to drive us towards a more ambitious target than the existing one to two per cent.
For example, we need incentives for decentralised energy development such as installing renewable energy set-ups in new buildings. This can range from structural features to small changes including converting rooftops. Conversions of lamp posts to solar panel lamp posts and introducing micro or vertical wind turbines are just some of the other exciting options available.
In principle, WWF supports CLP's investment in renewable energy. We urge the government to participate in the development of a regional energy policy and to drive improved energy consumption by all segments of our society.
William Yu, head of climate programme, WWF Hong Kong
