As of 2023, electricity consumption in Hong Kong SAR China is heavily reliant on fossil sources, with nearly three-quarters of its electricity coming from fossil fuels. Specifically, gas accounts for almost half of the electricity consumed, while coal contributes about a quarter. Clean energy plays a minor role, with net imports of low-carbon electricity reaching approximately a quarter. This indicates a substantial opportunity for growth in clean electricity generation, which could help reduce dependency on fossil fuels that contribute to air pollution and climate change.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Hong Kong SAR China?

The trend in electricity consumption in Hong Kong SAR China is slightly declining, which is a cause for concern given the growing need for electricity to support increasing electrification and the rise of AI technologies. In 2023, the electricity consumption per person was 6,615 kWh, lower than the record high of 6,772 kWh in 2012, indicating a decrease of about 150 kWh per person over the decade. However, on a positive note, low-carbon electricity generation per person increased slightly from 44 kWh in 2022 to 48 kWh in 2023, reflecting a marginal but important gain in clean energy usage.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Hong Kong SAR China can look to the successes of regions like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy contributes significantly to their electricity generation mix. France generates more than 60% of its electricity from nuclear energy. Additionally, solar power has seen substantial use in states like Nevada and California, which generate about 30% from this source. Hong Kong can aim to develop both its nuclear and solar capabilities, leveraging proven technologies to make its electricity generation cleaner and more sustainable.

History

Historically, low-carbon electricity development in Hong Kong SAR China has been limited. Over the years, from 2006 to 2023, most initiatives in low-carbon generation saw minimal advancement, with small solar developments only showing incremental improvements in the last few years and biofuels witnessing almost negligible growth. Despite these minor additions, there has been close to no progress in wind energy and biofuels have not shown any real uptick since 2019. This stagnation highlights the urgent need for strategic policies that prioritize and accelerate the growth of solar and nuclear energy to ensure a robust and environmentally responsible electricity future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade