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Lilian Goh

Name: Ho Kai-on Age: 34 Occupation: Electrical engineer at CLP Power

Young Post: How did you join CLP Power?

Ho: I studied electrical engineering at university and was  interested in the field of power supply.

I  spent a year as an intern at CLP Power,  which helped me get the position of graduate trainee when I completed my degree.

I worked at different departments at CLP before I moved to the system control centre because its entry requirements are higher.

You need to understand how the different sections work together.

YP: What are the responsibilities of the system control centre?

H: Our centre is in Tai Po. It monitors the power network of CLP Power, covering the New Territories, Kowloon and most of the outlying islands. It's like the system's nerve centre.

Our electricity is generated from four power stations at Black Point and Castle Peak in Tuen Mun, Penny's Bay on Lantau, and Daya Bay, the nuclear power station in Guangdong.

Unlike  other goods, electricity is not something that can be stored in large amounts.

To minimise wastage and best utilise resources, the centre decides how much electricity to generate.

Demand is low  late at night and in the early morning, but it rises quickly when the working day begins.

It  peaks at 9am as people get to work.

Electricity usage changes with the seasons too. July to September is peak season

as people use their  air-conditioners.

YP: Do you monitor emergencies as well?

H: Yes, our system is comprehensive.

If there is a disruption, for example, a damaged cable which is affecting the stability of power distribution, the computer will immediately alert us.

We will send the emergency repair unit  to the scene.

We are particularly busy when there's a  typhoon because strong winds often blow down trees which damage overhead cables.

More staff are on duty during bad weather.

I remember in 1999 when Typhoon York passed through the territory, there was so much damage that computer alarms kept popping up.

YP: What  qualities does an  engineer at the centre need?

H: Critical thinking is very important.

There is a vast amount of data to be absorbed and analysed, and you have to make decisions quickly.

Teamwork is important too, as engineers often work together. Newcomers have to be humble and learn from the experienced.

I am proud to be helping Hong Kong people lead a comfortable life.



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Energy

Power control

CLP Group