Energy governance, energy security and environmental sustainability: A case study from Hong Kong. (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Holley, Cameron; Lecavalier, Emma
• Is Part Of: Energy policy. Volume 108(2017)
• Page Start: 379
• Page End: 389
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: Hong Kong -- Energy governance -- Environmental sustainability -- Energy security; Energy policy -- Periodicals; Politique énergétique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 333.79
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2017.06.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4215

Abstract

Abstract: This article explores the challenges associated with governing the competing objectives of energy security and environmental sustainability. It examines this challenge in the context of Hong Kong and the city's recent fuel mix consultation. Based on the results of ten interviews with public and private stakeholders in the Hong Kong power sector, the findings analyze the perceptions of stakeholders with respect to the tension between sustainability and core pillars of energy security — accessibility, affordability and reliability. It concludes with four policy recommendations for managing and potentially moving beyond the energy dilemma, including suggestions for locally feasible sustainable energy, long-term pathways to decarbonization, policy changes on tariffs, incentives and pricing, and collaboratively co-governing clean energy. Highlights: Contests between energy security and environmental sustainability are a key challenge for energy governance. Hong Kong fuel mix consultation shows tension between energy security and environmental sustainability. Clearest pathway to low-carbon power sector is via unpopular cooperation with mainland China. Recommended that city make new efforts to realize new pathways to low carbon power sector reform.