Given the limited amount of energy reserves available, we need to be constantly aware of the need for energy efficiency and conservation. Here you can learn about aspects of the Government's energy management, efficiency and conservation policy, including the Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme, the Energy Efficiency Registration Scheme for Buildings and a pilot scheme on fresh water cooling towers. Knowing more about these initiatives could provide you with ideas about how to be more environmentally friendly in doing business.

Most of the energy we consume in Hong Kong comes from fossil fuels that cannot be renewed. These fuels are also a major source of air pollution, so an energy management, efficiency and conservation policy has been developed to encourage the public and relevant trades to use energy efficient technologies and measures to help clean the air and save energy.

The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department runs a voluntary Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme for appliances and equipment used in the home and office, and for petrol-powered vehicles. Manufacturers, importers and the like can join the scheme to promote their environmentally responsible products. The labels that are issued provide information on energy consumption and efficiency to help you make better purchasing decisions.

• More on the Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme
  http://www.gov.hk/en/residents/environment/energy/efficiencylabel.htm

Another energy efficiency initiative is the Energy Efficiency Registration Scheme for Buildings. Launched in 1998, this voluntary scheme promotes the application of Building Energy Codes that cover:

• Lighting
• Air-conditioning
• Electrical installations
• Lift and escalator

The Codes outline the energy efficiency requirements in their respective areas. Upon application to the Scheme, a registration certificate will be issued to a building that successfully meets the prescribed standards. Registered buildings can use the Scheme's energy efficient building logo on their documents to publicise their energy saving achievements.

• More on the Scheme and Building Energy Codes
  http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pee/eersb.shtml
• Scheme documents
  http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pee/eersb_pub.shtml
• List of buildings registered under the Scheme
  http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pee/eersb_reg.shtml

Electricity consumption by air-conditioning units is also a concern in Hong Kong. The use of air-conditioners accounts for 32% of all local electricity consumption, and 72% of that amount is consumed by commercial and Government buildings. These figures are rising every year, largely because of Hong Kong's increasing economic activities and population. 

The use of fresh water cooling towers can significantly reduce electricity consumption by air-conditioning. With this in mind, the Government has launched a voluntary pilot scheme on fresh water cooling for non-domestic buildings in designated areas. Owners of non-domestic buildings in the areas that the pilot scheme covers can apply to participate in the scheme. Codes of Practice are provided for the proper use and maintenance of water-cooled air-conditioning systems.

• More on Water-cooled Air-Conditioning Systems
  http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pee/wacs.shtml