Buildings & Facilities Theatre

Pathway to Diesel-free Construction: From Electrification to New Energy Adoption

11 Sep (Thur) Day 1 : 14:10 – 15:00

As Hong Kong advances towards its carbon neutrality goals, the construction industry shall embrace clean energy solutions to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. This panel will explore innovative strategies and technologies for integrating clean energy into construction practices. 

Imagine a future where construction sites are powered by clean energy, and grid electricity is optimized to enhance energy efficiency in construction site. This session will bring these transformative ideas to life! 

Through engaging discussions, real-world examples locally and overseas, and forward-thinking insights, the panel will highlight how Hong Kong’s construction industry can take the lead in energy transition. Attendees will gain insights into practical strategies and cutting-edge solutions to accelerate sustainable construction. 

Learnings 

  • Embrace Clean Energy: Understand the importance of transitioning to clean energy sources in construction to reduce carbon emissions and enhance sustainability. 
  • Early Grid Electricity Supply: Learn about early planning on electricity supply for construction sites. 
  • Collaborative Efforts: Explore the role of collaboration between government, private sector, and industry stakeholders in promoting diesel-free transitation 

Post-event Actions 

  • Implement Clean Energy Solutions: Integrate powered battery construction plants, and other clean energy sources into new construction projects. 
  • Early Site Planning: Early plan for new construction site projects on electricity adoption. 
  • Foster Partnerships: Build alliances with government bodies, private enterprises, and industry associations to support clean energy initiatives. 
  • Lead by Example: Take proactive steps to align construction projects with Hong Kong’s sustainability goals. 

Speakers

Michelle Au

China State Construction & Engineering Hong Kong

Sustainability, Director

I have worked with the focus on sustainability management, waste reduction policy and climate change related over for 20 years. A plentiful knowledge on environmental science and management of other cites regulations and policy could assist Secretary for Environment to analyze and draft policy for Hong Kong. During my almost ten-year tenure at HKSAR Environment Bureau (ENB) as the role of a Political Assistant, I participated in the process of policy making as well, like Producer Responsibility Schemes.

After stepping down from government, I have joined China State Construction and Engineering Hong Kong Ltd (中國建築工程香港有限公司) as the Sustainability Director since end of 2022. I have introduced a program to trial the use of Hydrogen Power Generation on construction sites and facilitated the industry’s largest Social Responsibility Loan of HKD 500 million in 2024.

I represented the company in professional councils and secured multiple awards, including the “Pioneer Award in Green Building Leadership (Contractor)” at the 2023 Environmental Building Awards, underscoring our commitment to sustainability.

In terms of personal public office, I am a council member (2025-2028) of the Hong Kong Institute of Qualified Environmental Professionals (HKIQEP). I am also a member of the Smart Waste Management Tool Working Group at the Construction Industry Council (CIC), and a co-opted member of the Sustainable Development Committee of the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC).

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