In the ever-evolving landscape of green smart cities, the focus on promoting alternative choices for green and smart mobility is paramount. With mobility being the second-largest contributor to global carbon emissions, it is crucial to embrace the innovation brought forth by companies like Tesla, as well as the fierce competition from emerging Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands such as BYD, Xiaomi, and others. Thanks to these advancements, EVs have transitioned from luxury goods to consumer goods, becoming more affordable for the masses.
The launch of the first registration tax (FRT) concessions for EVs has played a pivotal role in driving the adoption of electric private cars (e-PCs) in Hong Kong. The percentage of e-PCs among all newly registered private cars (PCs) has surged significantly, accounting for 6.3% in 2019 and an astonishing 52.8% by 2022, surpassing traditional fuel-powered vehicles. However, with such rapid growth in private EV ownership, reliance solely on public chargers is generally not preferred, as revealed by CBRE Research in February 2024[1].
As of March 2024, Hong Kong boasts approximately 87,900 EVs, while estimates suggest there are only 40,000 public and private EV chargers available[2]. Despite the government's EV subsidy scheme since the 2019 Policy Address, only 50 out of the approved 639 residential buildings have completed the installation of charging facilities so far[3]. The major challenge lies within existing residential buildings, particularly in older established districts, where communal electric power surplus is limited.
Addressing the unique needs and risks of older residential buildings necessitates more than just a charging solution—it requires deep expertise in building infrastructure. With most buildings in Hong Kong being high-rises and offering a comparatively limited number of parking spaces, the process becomes even more complex. These buildings often fall under third-party property management, requiring EV owners to seek consent from other owners for the installation of charging facilities at their parking spaces. Additionally, concerns about electricity supply and installation costs of charging infrastructure further complicate matters[4].
To navigate these challenges and obtain safe and efficient EV charging solutions that align with future technology, property managers and private EV owners must seek the assistance of experienced building professionals and alteration and addition experts. Their expertise is crucial in overcoming the hurdles posed by older residential buildings and ensuring compliance with evolving EV charging requirements.
However, it is important to acknowledge the limitation of the current EHSS scheme. While EHSS provides financial assistance for the installation of EV chargers in eligible private residential buildings, it does not offer a solution for residential buildings with no communal electric supply surplus. This limitation keeps these buildings away from the progress of greener smart city transformation, as they are unable to take advantage of the subsidy scheme.
For residential buildings without communal electric supply surplus, alternative solutions need to be explored. This may involve working with utility companies to enhance the electrical infrastructure or considering innovative approaches such as shared charging infrastructure or off-grid solutions. These alternative options require further research, collaboration, and government support to ensure that all residential buildings, regardless of their electrical supply limitations, can participate in the greener smart city transformation.
By embracing the collaboration between building professionals, property managers, and EV owners, Hong Kong can pave the way for a seamless transition to green and smart mobility within older residential buildings. This collective effort, along with the recognition of the limitations of existing schemes, will not only contribute to the overall sustainability and progress of the city but also drive the exploration and development of solutions to include all residential buildings in the greener smart city transformation. With the right expertise, partnerships, and government support, Hong Kong can lead the way in revolutionizing EV wall charging solutions for older residential buildings, creating a greener and more sustainable future for all.
Author: Ms. Carol Fung, Certified ESG Planner CEP®, focusing in sustainable communication, LinkedIn: Carol Fung | LinkedIn