[How to apply for funding for energy-saving projects? ]
Governments, businesses and individuals around the world have all regarded sustainable development as a core issue in recent years. Environmental protection and energy conservation are of course the top priorities, and applying for funding for energy-saving projects has also become an extended demand. The country has set a "dual carbon" goal, planning to achieve carbon peak by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060. As an important city in the Asia-Pacific region, Hong Kong has also pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, actively responding to global carbon reduction actions.
The role of enterprises in energy conservation
Hong Kong businesses play a vital role in this low-carbon transition. Buildings in Hong Kong account for 90% of Hong Kong’s total electricity consumption and over 60% of total carbon emissions, of which over 75% comes from commercial buildings and the rest from residential buildings, mainly private and public housing. Therefore, improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings has become one of the key ways to reduce carbon footprint. This article will introduce the funding schemes that building owners or property management companies can apply for, and how to maximize the chances of success in funding applications, to help Hong Kong move towards a green future.
Energy saving subsidy schemes by the Government and power companies
To support owners in improving the energy performance of their buildings, the Hong Kong Government and local power companies have launched a series of subsidy schemes to provide financial support to promote energy efficiency upgrades in buildings:
Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF):
Support energy-saving and renewable energy projects.
Low-carbon green scientific research fund:
Dedicated to providing funding for innovative environmental protection technologies and applications.
CLP Green Building Fund:
Fund projects to improve building energy efficiency, such as efficient lighting and HVAC system upgrades.
HK Electric Energy Saving Sharing Subsidy Scheme:
Supports improving building energy efficiency and assists properties in reducing electricity consumption.
Feed-in Tariff (FiT):
The installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is encouraged, and building owners can earn returns by selling the electricity generated back to the grid.
These grants not only help reduce energy costs and carbon emissions, but also increase the value of buildings, making sustainable development a financially viable investment.
Key strategies for energy conservation and emission reduction in buildings
To effectively reduce electricity consumption and carbon emissions, a comprehensive strategy must be adopted, including:
Passive Design
Optimize building orientation to reduce solar heat gain
Improve insulation and natural ventilation to reduce the need for air conditioning
Efficient Active Systems
Upgraded to high-efficiency HVAC system, LED lighting
Install intelligent energy management system to monitor and adjust energy consumption in real time
On-site Renewable Energy
Install solar photovoltaic (PV) or wind energy systems to reduce reliance on conventional electricity
Carbon Offsetting
Purchase carbon credits to support environmental projects around the world and compensate for emissions that cannot be eliminated
The combination of environmental protection strategies can significantly reduce energy consumption, helping companies and property managers to improve the competitiveness of buildings while saving energy and reducing carbon emissions.
How to apply for funding for energy-saving projects?
Applying for energy efficiency funding involves multiple steps, from identifying appropriate energy efficiency measures to submitting technical documentation and financial budgets, which can be complex for property owners.
At HKEA, we specialize in providing professional consultancy services to help you improve energy efficiency, optimize building performance, and successfully apply for relevant funding. Our team will:
Assess the current energy efficiency status of buildings and develop optimal energy-saving strategies
Guide the funding application process and prepare the required technical documents
Ensure your project meets the application requirements and maximize your success rate
Are there any restrictions on applications for energy-saving project funding?
Please note that some energy-saving subsidy schemes have limits and application deadlines. In order for your building to move towards a more sustainable future and make full use of the funding opportunities provided by the government and power companies, you are welcome to contact us at HKEA. We will fully support your energy-saving efforts. Your building can also save electricity costs every year, thereby reducing operating costs. Contact us now to start the low-carbon transformation of your building!
