09-Jul-2012

Hongkong International Terminals (HIT) today switched on its new solar panel installation, the latest addition to its green energy programme.

HIT installed 129 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels above the Terminal 4 gatehouse, making it the fifth largest solar PV system installation in Hong Kong from the private sector.

Gerry Yim, Managing Director, HIT said, “The investment in solar PV panels demonstrates HIT’s commitment to continually improving its environmental performance through the use of green and renewable energy sources. We are always exploring ways that we can use technology to minimise the impact of our operations on the environment.”

The panels will produce approximately 19,200 kWh of electricity a year, or enough to power a four-member household in Hong Kong for around three years. The solar PV panels will be used to power the canopy floodlights, gatehouse office lighting and Security Office equipment.

Unlike previous solar installations at HIT, these panels are directly wired into CLP grid to generate power rather than generate heat, allowing the lights and equipment to automatically switch back to CLP power if there is not enough solar power to sustain their operations.

HIT has an extensive green programme and its environmental policies extend to all areas of terminal operations. One of the most extensive programmes is the conversion of all diesel-driven Rubber-Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTGC) to electric or hybrid models resulting in a significant reduction in emissions and fuel consumption. Electronic ballasts have also been installed on the crane flood lights, part of an energy saving programme. HIT has two electric cars and four hybrid buses in use for intra-terminal transportation. It also has an extensive water conservation programme, and a recycling programme that covers everything from compact discs and batteries to scrap metal and rubber tyres.