Service Highlights

In line with the “Be the Smart Regulator” Programme implemented by the Government in recent years, we have introduced a one-stop online application service platform in July 2021 to streamline all applications related to the Electricity Ordinance and Electricity (Registration) Regulations. Registered Electrical Workers (REWs) who wish to renew their registration can now fill in the application forms, submit supporting documents and make payment through the one-stop platform, and receive the electronic registration certificates via email. To promote the online application service to REWs and the trade and help them use it, we have produced and uploaded a tutorial video on social media platforms. Starting from late June 2022, online application services for the following matters will be available on the platform: electrical worker registration or electrical contractor registration; registration of generating facilities; approval as competent persons for locating underground electricity cables (CPs); registration as recognised certification bodies or recognised manufacturers, endorsement of periodic test certificates (Form WR2); and the use of the digital E&M licences for REWs and CPs on mobile phone. The online application service platform has not only brought greater convenience to the trade, but also improved service efficiency.

All five Codes of Practices (CoPs) related to mechanical safety were updated in 2021. The updated versions were aligned with the latest international standards and the safety requirements for mechanical installations were enhanced based on specific local needs, giving the trade more detailed guidelines for reference. The five CoPs included two on lifts and escalators, and three others on builders’ lifts, tower working platforms and amusement rides respectively, with effective dates ranging from November 2021 to October 2022. With the deepened implementation of the online booking system for inspection in 2021, the statutory approval process for lifts and escalators after major alternation works was further expedited. The average application processing time was greatly reduced from nine days to three days, and the related public enquiries were also reduced by 70%. The online booking system has significantly increased both service efficiency and public satisfaction.

After visiting over 3 800 village houses in 34 villages to conduct sample surveys, we launched a new initiative to promote the installation of centralised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply systems for shared use of village houses during the year. The initiative aims to help users reduce LPG storage and further enhance gas safety. In addition, to enhance town gas riser safety at residential buildings across the territory, 22 residential estates were selected for the implementation of a pilot scheme to step up inspection of town gas risers, with a view to encouraging users to replace aged and corroded gas risers as early as possible. As the scheme was proved effective, additional 14 residential estates were selected for the scheme during the year. In these two batches of selected estates, there were over 400 buildings in total and mostly are aged over 30 years. As to auto-LPG, the contracts of all 12 Dedicated LPG Filling Stations (DFSs) in Hong Kong have expired one after another after 22 years of service. All new contracts were awarded on May 2021 through an open tendering process. To minimise disruption to the taxi and mini-bus trades, we worked out a staggered programme for renovation, liaised with the trades to keep them well-informed of the renovation schedule of the DFSs, and urged the new operators to expedite the works as soon as possible. Kwun Tong DFS, being the first renovated station, was re-opened in December 2021.

The Tuen Ma Line (TML), comprising the West Rail Line, TML Phase 1 and a newly added section from Sung Wong Toi Station to Hung Hom Station, commenced its full launch and service on 27 June 2021. The TML, which covers about 56 kilometres with 27 stations connecting Tuen Mun to Wu Kai Sha, is the longest railway line in Hong Kong. Its full launch marks another milestone in the city’s railway development. Prior to its launch, we closely monitored the MTR Corporation Limited to carry out stringent full-line train tests, including exercises on different scenarios which might occur in peak and non-peak hours during the day-one operation, and test the reliability of the systems of the entire line. After several months of rigorous inspection and testing, the EMSD and relevant government departments confirmed that the TML was in “safe and sound” condition for opening for public service.

The Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS) is aimed at facilitating the selection of energy-efficient appliances of the public and raising public awareness on energy conservation. The first three phases of the MEELS have been fully implemented. Under the MEELS, eight types of household electrical products are currently required to be affixed with energy labels. To further achieve potential energy saving, we have proposed to take forward the fourth phase of the MEELS, expanding the coverage of the MEELS to include gas cookers, gas instantaneous water heaters and light emitting diode (LED) lamps. Upon addition of the three, the total residential energy consumption accounted for by all the prescribed products under the MEELS will increase from 49% to 80%.

In recent years, the EMSD has been actively involved in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and now there are two officers from the EMSD representing Hong Kong and taking leading roles in the energy efficiency work under the APEC. Our Assistant Director/Electricity and Energy Efficiency was elected as Deputy Lead Shepherd of the Energy Working Group (EWG) under the APEC for session 2021-23 during the year, in addition to a former Assistant Director of the EMSD who continues to represent Hong Kong and serve as Chairman of the Expert Group on Energy Efficiency and Conservation under the EWG for session 2021-23. This does not only represent recognition of the EMSD, but also gives a boost to the reputation of Hong Kong in the field of energy efficiency. Besides, the then Environment Bureau and the EMSD launched the Green Welfare NGOs scheme to help eligible welfare NGO premises conduct energy audits and install more energy efficient variable-speed air-conditioners and LED lighting. We aim to provide services at 300 premises of the participating welfare NGOs. As to the Kai Tak District Cooling System planned and built by the EMSD, it also reached a milestone with the provision of cooling services to its first private user, a major integrated shopping mall and office development in the district.