“The response to the energy saving competition for government departments last year was very encouraging. To maintain this momentum in energy saving, recently we have launched a similar award scheme for the private sector. These competitions serve to recognise achievements and best practices, and also benchmark efforts in energy efficiency and conservation.”   George K H Ling Chief Engineer (Energy Efficiency Office)         Exploring Wind Energy We have embarked on a field-based wind measurement programme in strategic locations to investigate the feasibility of harnessing wind energy in Hong Kong. Two wind monitoring stations have been set up – one on the roof of the Government Logistics Centre in Chai Wan and another on Pottinger Peak. The monitoring structures, measuring 50 metres in height, are equipped with anemometers at different elevations to gather data for assessment. The measurement instruments are powered by solar cells and the data collected is transmitted back to EMSD offices through a wireless telemetry system. Three more stations are being built in Tung Lung Chau, Town Island and Miu Tsai Tun.   As part of our drive to promote the wider application of wind energy in Hong Kong, the two power companies are also working on a demonstration project. Two wind turbines will be built to help the public appreciate and evaluate the potential of the technology for local application. Hongkong Electric is planning to install a wind turbine on Lamma Island with a capacity of up to 800kW, while CLP Power will erect a turbine of similar capacity on an outlying island or in the New Territories.   Supporting WACS Deployment The Cooling Tower Pilot Scheme, one of our key initiatives in promoting Water-cooled Air-Conditioning Systems (WACS) in Hong Kong, has been progressing well in the past year. We are pleased to report an upsurge in the number of applications for the adoption of the more energy-efficient evaporative cooling tower-type air conditioning system, due partly to the expansion of designated areas under the pilot       scheme and partly to growing awareness and interest among developers and management companies. In 2004, we received a total of 78 applications - a two-fold increase over 2003 – involving a total floor area of 4.3 million square metres and a potential annual saving of 52 million kWh in energy consumption and a reduction of 36,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.     In a strategic step towards the territory-wide implementation of WACS in Hong Kong, we will compile a series of codes of practice for WACS. A consultancy study was commissioned in 2004 to formulate a code of practice for the cooling towertype air-conditioning system. Making reference to both local and international experience in regulatory and voluntary implementation of cooling towers, the study will set out appropriate guidelines for the construction, operation and maintenance of cooling towers, and the application of overseas regulations and procedures in Hong Kong. The study will also list cooling-tower water treatment service providers and the water treatment chemicals needed for corrosion prevention and bacterial control.