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Hong Kong's Gas Usage Still Lags Pre-Pandemic Levels for Sixth Consecutive Year

categories: economics, economy of china, energy consumption, energy sector, hong kong

The supplier anticipates that this trend will continue, whereas economists link reduced consumption to shifting lifestyles, such as greater travel across the mainland.

In 2024, gas consumption in Hong Kong remained under the pre-pandemic levels for six consecutive years. The provider anticipates this trend will continue, as economists suggest a "structural decrease" in use is tied to shifts in lifestyles, such as more trips to mainland China.

The city's only gas provider, the Hong Kong and China Gas Company, commonly referred to as Towngas, similarly connected its prediction with the anticipated mild temperatures for this year.

Professor Lee Shu-kam, who leads the Department of Economics and Finance at Shue Yan University, highlighted a "structural decrease in gasoline sales" within the city.

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An crucial aspect is the weak economy. With a decrease in tourism, stores end up using less fuel," Lee explained. "However, what holds greater significance is that post-pandemic, numerous individuals have started spending more within their own country.

For example, individuals who are 60 years old or older can use railway services for free in Shenzhen by showing their Home Return Permits, passports, or other identification documents provided by the local government, as stated on a site run by the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau.

The complimentary transportation rates were described as "highly appealing" by Lee. However, he also noted that once you're there, having meals becomes essential.

In 2024, gas sales in Hong Kong amounted to 27,159 terajoules, which represents an 8.1 percent decrease compared to the levels seen in 2018. This follows a continuous decline over five years until this recent uptick of 0.1 percent, as reported by Towngas.

The firm projected that natural gas sales were likely to increase modestly to 27,200 terajoules in 2025, which represents an 8 percent decrease from the 29,550 terajoules sold in 2018 prior to the onset of the pandemic.

A spokesperson for the gas firm stated to the Post that they anticipate the gas usage level in 2025 will stay steady at approximately 27,200 terajoules, assuming there are no major shifts in the daily habits of Hong Kong residents and considering the mild climate projected for 2025,

The gas firm highlighted "various elements impacting gas sales in Hong Kong throughout recent years, encompassing periods of pandemic, post-pandemic challenges, along with the subsequent recovery phase."

"Generally, we are witnessing severe effects of climate change, with temperature records in Hong Kong showing increases compared to earlier years from 2021 through 2023," stated the spokesperson.

Consequently, gas consumption dropped as a result of reduced usage for heating water.

Home gas consumption has decreased continuously over the past four years, dropping to 14,437 terajoules in 2024. This figure represents 53 percent of overall usage, as reported by the gas company and highlighted in their investment briefing for the fiscal year-end 2024 outcomes.

The spokesperson stated that residential gas usage was impacted by "unprecedented worldwide temperature highs" in the previous year and the tendency of residents of Hong Kong traveling to Mainland China, resulting in a "minor decline of 1.4 percent."

The representative mentioned that gas usage in households rose by 11 percent compared to the previous year, totaling 16,685 terajoules in 2020 as a result of pandemic-related limitations.

However, by 2023, once these restrictions were eased and individuals could resume their international trips, natural gas consumption within households dropped by 8.4 percent compared to the previous year, totaling 14,648 terajoules.

Lee from Shue Yan University further pointed out that the increase in food delivery services and households with fewer members, sometimes as few as two individuals, opting for dining out rather than cooking at home has also led to structurally reduced consumption of gas.

Lee additionally pointed out that the significant migration of numerous households with children, who primarily use natural gas for cooking and bathing, has also contributed to this decrease.

In the meantime, Vera Yuen Wing-han, an economics lecturer at the University of Hong Kong, noted that there has been "a move toward electrical devices."

Yuen noted that the increased adoption of electric heaters and stoves is significantly driven by shifts in contemporary home layouts, including open-plan kitchens and studio flats.

Such designs usually comply with fire safety rules that restrict or prohibit the usage of open flames.

In 2024, industrial consumption represented 7 percent of the overall usage, marking an increase of 107 terajoules attributed primarily to heightened activity in aviation catering and laundry facilities, as reported by the gas company.

Significantly, the commercial usage of gas varied alongside the nominal GDP, increasing in 2021, 2023, and 2024, whereas it declined in 2020 and 2022.

In 2024, commercial gas usage represented 40 percent of the overall consumption and kept increasing.

This improvement was fueled by a rebound in tourism-associated industries, with hotels seeing an increase of 66 terajoules and theme parks experiencing a rise of 20 terajoules in their natural gas consumption. Additionally, hospitals and social welfare organizations witnessed a significant boost of 137 terajoules in energy use.

The spokesperson stated that an increase in use observed in 2021 was connected to the city’s voucher program implemented during the pandemic, aimed at boosting local expenditures.

However, in 2020, commercial use declined by 17.7 percent to reach 11,262 terajoules.

"The catering sector was considerably impacted during the pandemic era and throughout the recovery phase," stated the spokesperson for the gas company.

Amps, Volts, Watts, Ohms: Unraveling the Key Differences

categories: electric power, electrical wiring, electronics, energy consumption, household appliances

The fundamental elements of electricity are quite simple and logical to comprehend. electrical terms relate and get along with each other like a harmonious family. Before you tackle any electrical or home wiring Project, get acquainted with the following terms so you can approach them more intelligently, safely, and without hesitation.

What Is a Watt?

Watts measure electrical power. Consider wattage as the force behind electricity used for tasks like warming up or lighting a space in your house. For instance, think about the watts needed for a portable electric space heater Rated at 500 watts, this space heater uses 500 watts of electricity whenever it is activated.

You'll also come across wattage when choosing. light bulbs To locate an incandescent bulb that generates similar illumination to the burnt-out one, you should examine the wattage. Additionally, the wattage rating of an appliance is typically indicated on its nameplate.

What Is a Volt?

Voltage acts as the force that drives electric current through a wire.

In North America, utility systems generally supply electricity to your home’s service panel at voltages of 240 and 120. Large electric devices such as ranges , clothes dryers, water heaters , air conditioning and space heating systems Typically run on 240 volts. All other devices function with 120 volts.

What Is an Amp?

Amperage indicates how quickly electricity moves through an electric circuit. To liken it to plumbing: if voltage represents water pressure, then amperage signifies the speed at which the water travels. "Amps" serves as the abbreviated term for this measurement.

During installation, modification, or replacement of branch circuits in your house, within your electrical panel, you'll encounter either fuses or circuit breakers Of varying dimensions. Standard general-purpose lighting and electrical outlet circuits have a rating of 15 amps. In more recent building practices, you will additionally encounter specialized 20-amp circuits designed specifically for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. garage receptacle outlets along with appliances such as a dishwasher or refrigerator.

Electric clothes dryers and electric water heaters usually have a rating of 30 amps. Air-conditioning units Electric ranges along with electric countertops or wall-mounted electric ovens can have ratings of 30, 40, or 50 amps.

Every electrical component in your house should be synchronized to ensure safe operation. The amperage rating of your fuse or circuit breaker determines the wire gauge and limits the circuit’s capabilities. Should you require additional amps, larger wiring will be necessary.

What Is an Ohm?

An ohm (denoted by the Greek symbol Omega, or Ω) gauges the natural resistance present in various materials. electrical wire Copper wire, which is highly efficient at conducting electricity, is commonly present in numerous households. On the other hand, aluminum wire, also a proficient conductor, is typically utilized in commercial, industrial, and power supply setups. Each type has natural opposition to electric current flow.

Wires constructed with various metals exhibit differing levels of electrical resistance, similar to how a miniature garden hose restricts water flow when contrasted with a substantial fire hose.

While troubleshooting electrical circuits, appliances, light switches, fuses, relays, and other components using a multimeter, certain settings and readings will be indicated in ohms. When testing the continuity of a new fuse, the multimeter will read roughly zero Ohms of resistance. This indicates that the fuse has continuity and is in working condition.

If you examine a potentially faulty fuse or malfunctioning light switch, you'll likely receive an Ohm reading different from zero. This could signify a blown fuse or a problematic light switch. Refer to the multimeter’s instruction manual for guidance on how to proceed. operate it safely and interpret the readings.

What Is the Relationship Between Watts, Volts, Amps, and Ohms?

Electrical mathematics is simple. Once you have knowledge of two variables, you can determine the outcome. Knowing "x" and "y," allows you to calculate "z."

Numerous laws govern physics, science, and nature, with Ohm’s Law being crucial for grasping fundamental concepts of electricity. The Ohm’s Law Wheel serves as an invaluable tool to clarify these principles.

Sure! Here’s how this might look as an example of a real-world scenario: Imagine you're setting up an electric space heater in your garage. The local hardware store has a 5,000-watt (also five kilowatts or 5kW) unit available which would be ideal for the area. What capacity breaker do you require for this space heater?

Based on the label, the space heater has a rating of 5 kW and requires a voltage supply of 240 volts. You need to determine the amperage (denoted as 'I' for "current intensity"). Referring to the Ohm’s Law chart, use this equation:

I = W/V (amperes = watts divided by volts);

I = 5,000 watts ÷ 240 volts;

I = 20.8 amps;

Since an electric space heater operating continuously might run for at least three hours during chilly weather, a safety margin of 125% is used. Thus, 20.8 amps multiplied by 1.25 equals 26 amps.

Everything is completed! A typical 30-amp branch circuit will provide sufficient power to reliably and safely meet the energy needs of the space heater without interruption.

How to Operate Securely Within Your House's Electrical Setup

Electricity is an unseen force that we often overlook. Handling electricity doesn’t have to be risky or complicated provided you understand its principles, approach it cautiously, and follow simple safety measures. Discover how to do so effectively. safely use electrical tools and testers.
Make sure your electrical tester or multimeter is working properly before turning off the power.
Always disconnect the power from circuits prior to working on them. Place a label, sign, or circuit breaker lockout device At the electrical panel to prevent anyone from accidentally turning the power back on. You can find various universal circuit breaker lockout devices at home improvement stores and online for under $10.
Make sure to always use protective eyewear and nonconductive gloves made from materials like leather, rubber, latex, or nitrile. Opt for attire crafted from natural fibers rather than synthetic ones.
Wear appropriate durable shoes and avoid standing or kneeling on wet or moist surfaces while handling electricity. Utilize a dry, nonconducting wooden object instead. nonconductive mat, especially when working outdoors.
Utilize tools featuring handles made of rubber or plastic. These nonconductive handle materials offer an additional layer of safeguard against electrical risks.

Australian Energy Regulator OKs Power Price Hikes Up to 9%

categories: electric power, electricity bill, energy consumption, energy sector, news

It has been confirmed that electricity costs for homes in New South Wales will rise by as much as 9 percent.

Even with a decline in overall inflation rates, rising costs might result in a significant reduction—hundreds of dollars—in disposable income for certain families.

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen discussed the price increase during a press conference on Thursday morning.

Aussie Households Stunned by Sudden Blow

categories: economics, electric power, electricity bill, energy consumption, utility bills

Based on an analysis conducted by Canstar, Australian families can expect their electricity bills to increase by approximately $200 beginning July 1st.

Sally Tindall, the Canstar Blue data insights director, referred to it as a "sucker punch" and unexpected bad news amid a cost of living crisis.

"Rising electricity prices affect nearly everybody, however, they hit people with lower incomes the hardest since these families have to spend a larger portion of their earnings just to maintain power in their homes," she explained.

As Canstar suggests, The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has issued its most recent draft of the default market offer (DMO), outlining the highest prices that residents in New South Wales, South Australia, and Southeast Queensland may have to pay.

According to the proposal, electricity costs for homes might increase by 2.5 to 8.9 percent based on the location of the household.

Small business customers might experience increases ranging from 4.2 to 8.2 percent.

According to Canstar, this will set the average NSW household back a further $200 a year on their electricity bill.

Canstar noted that although prices are increasing, they represent the highest amount that electricity retailers are permitted to charge customers under standard contracts, commonly referred to as 'standing offers'. Even though only a minority of consumers use standing offers, providers also offer market deals, which tend to be more competitive yet could still be affected by these adjustments.

Clare Savage, the AER chair, stated that it continues to be a difficult period for energy consumers, especially those affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

"We understand that the increasing living costs are a major concern for numerous households and small enterprises," she stated.

"We've observed rising expenses for almost all parts of the standard market offer, and we have thoroughly examined these to guarantee that the prices accurately represent the costs incurred by retailers in supplying electricity," stated Ms Savage.

The head of Energy Consumers Australia, Brendan French, stated that his organization was dismayed regarding the recent increase in prices.

"The DMO is established to safeguard individuals, especially those in precarious situations, from facing excessively steep electricity costs. If it charges as much as 25 percent more than rival offerings, it isn’t functioning efficiently," stated Dr French.

The Australian Energy Regulator finds itself in a challenging position due to ongoing fluctuations in wholesale prices and continually increasing network expenses.

"But we will keep urging the AER to take all necessary steps to make sure networks operate at minimal cost, as well as ensuring that the retail part of the DMO removes any superfluous marketing and additional components," Dr French stated.

The Essential Services Commission (ESC) released its draft decision regarding the proposed hike in the Victorian Default Offer (VDO) on Thursday.

The commission suggested that typical annual electricity expenses should increase from $1655 to $1667, representing a 0.72 percent hike, for consumers who use an estimated 4000 kWh annually—the average consumption level statewide.

As per the ESC proposal, certain Victorian households might see their power costs decrease by $19, whereas others could experience an uptick of as much as $68 based on which zone they reside in.

Companies are expected to pay an additional 3 percent on average.

Much like the reference pricing mechanism employed in other states, the Victorian Default Offer (VDO) serves as a protective measure for Victoria residents who have 'standing offer' agreements with their electricity supplier. It also safeguards consumers whose rates are either capped or subject to market competition.

Approximately 337,000 households and 56,000 small enterprises fall under the VDO, which likewise establishes the highest pricing for residences and businesses inside an integrated network.

After Thursday's announcement, The Australian Council of Social Service, Antipoverty Centre, Anglicare Australia, The Australia Institute, and the Consumer Law Action Centre have penned an open letter to the government requesting over $300 million in energy debts be waived for 331,750 households.

The co-director of the Antipoverty Centre, Jay Coonan, stated that energy firms are profiting enormous sums while typical Australians are facing difficulties.

Energy firms have demonstrated their reluctance to prioritize disadvantaged consumers over profit margins," he stated. "It’s now up to the government to intervene and assist individuals trapped in debt cycles as well as those of us who must decide whether to keep our residences at a comfortable temperature or manage unaffordable energy expenses.

The increase in electricity costs came after significant rises of nearly 40 percent during the fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24, but saw a halt in 2024-25.

Electricity prices dropped by 9.9 percent in the December quarter and decreased by 25.2 percent compared to the previous year, as reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

This reduction occurred thanks to rebates provided by both state and federal governments; otherwise, electricity prices would have increased by 0.2 percent in December.

The federal government allocated $3.5 billion for energy bill assistance, giving each household a $300 rebate through $75 installments paid out four times annually. Small enterprises qualifying for this program were granted a $325 rebate.

Both are set to conclude on April 1.

According to Canstar Blue's study, half of Australians believe that the $300 government incentive ought to persist, whereas an additional 34 percent feel that assistance should continue but with a means test implemented.

The Canstar Blue data and insights director, Sally Tindall, noted that it wasn’t surprising Australians sought additional assistance since the previous batch of rebates was about to expire.

"Tally your monthly savings and set aside that additional money in a secure spot for when you face the truth about your actual electricity bill," she advised.

Ms Tindall stated that numerous Australians might be paying too much for their electricity bills, as sticking with the same provider usually resulted in higher costs.

Based on data from Canstar Blue, families in Sydney might save as much as $386 annually by shifting from an average-cost plan to the most affordable option available. In contrast, homes in Melbourne and Brisbane stand to benefit with savings of around $319 and $445 each year, respectively—this amounts to possibly $145 more compared to the entire federal subsidy provided.

"If the government decides to extend an olive branch regarding electricity, consider changing to a more advantageous energy plan – you might find that redirecting this additional money elsewhere in your budget could be beneficial," Ms Tindall stated.

Australians Skip Meals and Medication to Afford Power Bills

categories: electric power, electricity bill, energy consumption, energy sector, utility bills

Daily, everyday Aussies are having to pick between getting meals on their plates and paying their power bills, new research has found.

Of the 1011 individuals polled by the Australian Council of Social Service, half reported that they were missing meals and foregoing medications to ensure their air conditioning or heaters remained operational.

Others mentioned they were offloading their possessions or utilizing buy now, pay later (BNPL) services to manage their soaring electricity costs.

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Some opted for not using any heating or cooling systems at all within their homes as a way to reduce energy consumption.

Von, a 62-year-old resident of the Central Coast in New South Wales who receives the disability pension, mentioned that using the air conditioner was not feasible for them.

Von mentioned that he wakes up very early every day to monitor the weather. He doesn’t have the option to open his windows due to blackout curtains, so instead, he uses a floor fan in each bedroom which provides some cooling relief. However, affording air conditioning isn't feasible for him.

"Trying to sleep is unbelievable. I take cold showers in the middle of the night to cool down and use wet towels.

"It's hard to clean the house because it's too hot. Cost is a huge factor."

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A 61-year-old man from Melbourne named Euan, who also receives the disability support pension, mentioned that nights during the warmer seasons can be "awful."

He mentioned that they do have a stationary air conditioner installed in the master bedroom, however, the two children's rooms become extremely warm during summertime and remain so.

Each day feels like a struggle for me, particularly when the warmth intensifies during the nighttime.

The house exceeds 40 years of age, and the windows are outdated with single-pane design.

According to those surveyed by ACOSS, people are reducing their usage of lights and air conditioning, cutting down on shower times, or disconnecting major appliances to lower their energy costs.

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"It’s utterly disgraceful that in one of the globe’s richest countries, individuals are falling ill, missing meals, and postponing doctor visits due to an inability to pay for heating and electricity in their homes," stated ACOSS CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie.

The Australian Council of Social Service (ACCOSS) is urging the federal government to finance energy improvements for all 437,700 social housing units by the year 2030.

Goldie emphasized, "There is an urgent need to assist individuals in enhancing the thermal efficiency of their homes, transitioning to electricity, and utilizing rooftop solar panels along with home batteries." He added, "The greatest support should be directed towards low-income households and those belonging to Indigenous communities."

From July 1, energy bill costs are expected to increase following the release of the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) draft decision regarding the “default market offer” (DMO).

The typical home could see their yearly electricity costs rise by up to an additional $200 annually if the limits on prices for consumers on basic plans are removed.

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New Device Harnesses Exhaust Heat, Turning Waste into Power Through Science

categories: alternative energy, energy consumption, engineering, technology, technology industry

It might not save ICE, but it’s still quite impressive.

Over the last century or so, internal combustion engines have dominated our roads. However, with EVs As they slowly lose prominence, it might seem like gas-powered engines are becoming obsolete. However, despite this perception, several brands continue to push forward with innovations in Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) technology.

Consider Porsche as an illustration. This prominent German automaker has been experimenting with a six-stroke engine To enhance efficiency, Toyota is fully committed to the sustainability journey as well. They are actively engaged in this initiative. hydrogen combustion , and in my opinion, Toyota stands the best chance of making internal combustion engines future-ready.

This being said, it's not only major automakers that are advancing innovations for internal combustion engines (ICE). Individual scientists have devised an ingenious method to enhance the efficiency of ICE-driven machinery by converting discarded exhaust heat into electrical power.

Photo by: Toyota

Toyota and the major players from Japan collaborated to develop a hydrogen-burning engine for their entry in the Dakar Rally racecar.

A major issue with internal combustion engines is their inefficiency; roughly 75% of the energy generated gets wasted as heat, escaping via the exhaust pipe or radiating directly from the engine itself. However, a novel thermoelectric generator (TEG) seeks to tackle this problem. By placing this gadget on the exhaust system, it can harness waste heat and transform it into usable electrical power.

Created by a group of researchers and released in the scientific journal ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces The prototype produced up to 56 watts of power during normal driving speeds and an impressively high 146 watts in fast-paced scenarios such as those experienced with helicopters.

However, how exactly does it function? This device employs a semiconductor composed of bismuth telluride to generate power through thermal gradients. Unlike many comparable systems that require heavy water-cooling mechanisms, this system utilizes a finned heat sink designed for passive dissipation of heat via air flow—an ideal solution for motorcycles and powersport vehicles where consistent airflow is naturally available.

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Even though the team tried out this technology on automobiles, it's evident that its application goes beyond just cars. It can also be used with powersports vehicles such as motorcycles. UTVs , and ATVs These devices feature open exhausts which allow for significant air circulation, indicating that the setup might operate effectively with minimal additional bulk or intricacy. Additionally, they tend not to encounter as much congestion as automobiles typically do.

However, pushing this technology a step forward in time, hybrid vehicles might also benefit. The electrical power produced could slowly recharge the battery, providing an additional bit of range. While it may not be revolutionary, each scrap of reclaimed energy makes a difference.

Ultimately, this approach makes internal combustion engines (ICE) more efficient, which is clever. However, realistically speaking, it isn’t enough to revive their supremacy. The automotive industry is moving towards electrification, and even though advancements such as these might prolong the use of gasoline-driven vehicles, they cannot halt the transition to electric cars (EVs).

Nevertheless, for those of us with a passion for motorcycles and off-road vehicles, any technology that improves the efficiency of internal combustion engines (ICE) deserves attention. Should this thermoelectric generator (TEG) technology be implemented in production models, it could enhance both power and fuel economy slightly. That would certainly be a positive development from our perspective.

Source: Futurism , Inquirer Technology , ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces