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The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has allocated up to HK$40 million to revamp 30% of its parking infrastructure, incorporating charging capabilities tailored for electric vehicles (EVs) alongside requisite software support. This strategic initiative is designed to foster a sustainable commuting ethos and aligns with the HKUST 2028 Sustainability Challenge, emphasising emission reduction objectives.
Upon the completion of the EV charging infrastructure enhancement project, HKUST is poised to emerge as the most EV-friendly university in Hong Kong. This endeavour will see approximately 360 parking spots on campus equipped with medium EV chargers, boasting an output power of no less than 7kW. The overarching goal is to not only bolster the HKSAR Government’s Roadmap on Popularisation of EVs but also to expedite measures aimed at curbing emissions from both university-owned vehicles and indirect emissions stemming from commuting activities.
The enhancement project, which commenced in 2022, has already witnessed the installation of EV infrastructure to support over 150 EV chargers at staff quarters. Over the ensuing four years, the project will persist in upgrading the power supply infrastructure, deploying a load management system, and installing EV chargers in both indoor and outdoor parking facilities across the Clear Water Bay campus. Recently, four fast EV chargers were generously donated by BMW Hong Kong to the University, marking the onset of trial operations earlier this week.
The Vice-President for Administration and Business at HKUST underscored the university’s commitment to advancing sustainability endeavours. He emphasised the institution’s ambition to cultivate a generation attuned to sustainability concerns, leveraging cutting-edge research and technological innovations to foster a greener environment and lifestyle.
With the electrification of transportation at the forefront, HKUST aims to play a pivotal role in promoting EV adoption for commuting purposes, thereby contributing to carbon emission mitigation efforts and steering Hong Kong towards its carbon neutrality objectives.
To incentivise EV adoption, the university presently offers complimentary EV charging services to its community members. However, post-completion of the enhancement project, a nominal fee structure might be considered to offset electricity and maintenance expenses.
Moreover, HKUST intends to implement a smart parking management system, underpinned by Edge AI Camera technology, facilitating license plate recognition and vacancy detection. This system will seamlessly integrate with the existing “HKUST Staff” mobile application, furnishing EV drivers with real-time updates on charging station availability and facilitating fast charger reservations. Additionally, the system will allocate priority parking spaces for carpool drivers in the future, thereby nurturing a culture of sustainable commuting through collaborative carpooling initiatives.
Aligned with the HKUST 2028 Sustainability Challenge’s objectives, the smart parking management system has garnered approval as a project under the “Sustainable Smart Campus as a Living Lab” (SSC) campaign. This endorsement, secured during the seventh round of proposals, positions the system as a pilot scheme primed for broader implementation opportunities.
In tandem with the deployment of EV charging facilities, HKUST remains steadfast in its commitment to electrifying its vehicle fleet in line with operational exigencies and prevailing market dynamics. By April 2024, over 30% of the university’s fleet comprises EVs, with the remainder comprising low-emission hybrid vehicles, underscoring HKUST’s unwavering dedication to sustainable transportation practices.
