Hong Kong could overtake mainland China’s target of reducing carbon intensity by 2020, according to the Beijing-based Energy Research Institute (ERI).

 

The ERI, a unit of China’s chief economic planning body, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), has forecast that Hong Kong has the potential to reduce its carbon emission levels by up to 19% by 2020 through the implementation of various energy and low carbon policies, such as the promotion of energy efficiency and renewable energy.

 

Without taking any action, the territory’s energy demand is expected to increase above 2007 levels by 20% by 2020 – the equivalent of adding 3.8 million cars, leading to a 23% rise in carbon emissions.

 

The study, commissioned by NGO The Climate Group, projects greenhouse gas emissions in Hong Kong formulated using a computer model developed by ERI.

 

The institute used the same model to project China’s greenhouse gas emissions prior to the Copenhagen summit last December, leading to Beijing to announce a targeted cut of 40%-45% in carbon intensity – that is, carbon emission per unit of GDP -

by 2020.

 

The Climate Group says a developed economy such as Hong Kong’s has the capacity to take on a more ambitious emissions target than the mainland.

 

It said Hong Kong should aim for a more ambitious legislation on the Building Energy Codes, and should introduce policies that encourage the use of advanced technologies and elimination of inefficient equipment.

 

Said Kejun Jiang, director of research management and international collaboration at ERI: “Hong Kong should seek opportunities to reduce its emissions from energy consumption through enhancing the integration of its energy network with that of Guangdong, such as by establishing renewable energy power plants within Guangdong Province.”

 

The report said Hong Kong could contribute to low carbon development in the Pearl River Delta Region through its strength in financing and innovation, as well as its established infrastructure and expertise.