An environmental analysis of electricity consumption in built environments

Electricity is considered as an inseparable part of our modern life. In built environments, the demands for electricity are much greater and more intense. In 2008, electricity consumption amounted to 5,856 kWh per capita in Hong Kong and the electricity productivity of Hong Kong was US$5.27 GDP per kWh, a very high level in the world. However, high productivity comes at a cost - poor perceived environmental quality. This study examines the environmental impacts of electricity consumption in Hong Kong, using greenhouse gases as a basis for impact analysis. Since Hong Kong imports some percentage of electricity from a nuclear power plant in a nearby area, the imported electricity causes an illusion of low emission per unit of electricity consumed and transfers hidden environmental burdens from the electricity consumption destination (Hong Kong) to the electricity generation region (Shenzhen). However, Hong Kong will also be adversely affected by those hidden burdens because of the proximity effect in long run. Moreover, we estimate the extent of the environmental impacts from a global perspective. In realizing that Hong Kong imports fuels from overseas and emissions along fuel life cycles have yet to be taken into account, we suggest that pollution indices from utilities companies and government departments need be adjusted accordingly.