Impact of urban temperature on energy consumption of Hong Kong

Abstract

The aim of this study is to estimate the potential impact of ambient temperature rise due to urbanization or global warming on energy consumption in Hong Kong. Using one-year data, the temperature dependence of the monthly consumption of one energy fuel (electricity, gas or oil) in a specific category (domestic, commercial or industrial) was determined by a statistical regression (E = f (T)). The increase in energy consumption for each year assuming a 1 °C temperature rise could then be estimated. The analyses show that the percentage changes of annual electricity and domestic gas consumption remained consistent for 15 years. The results show that for a 1 °C ambient temperature rise, the electricity consumption would increase by 9.2%, 3.0%, and 2.4% in domestic, commercial and industrial sectors, respectively. The corresponding economic impact on total electricity consumptions was estimated at HK$1.7 billion (in 2004). The domestic gas demand due to a 1 °C ambient temperature rise would be reduced by 2.4% and its economic saving would be HK$ 77 million. The temperature dependence of monthly oil products consumption was very weak. In summary, for a 1 °C ambient temperature rise, the energy cost of Hong Kong would probably increase by HK$1.6 billion per year.