Time for more nuclear power? Hong Kong electricity price increases unavoidable, experts say
- Power companies’ latest round of tariff increases effective January revives debate on options for city
- Nuclear power supplies available from Guangdong, but some worry about fallout if accidents occur
Hong Kong should consider importing more nuclear energy from mainland China as a cheaper power option if regular electricity tariff increases become impossible to avoid, some experts have said.
Others pointed to the risks of relying on nuclear power, including the fallout from accidents, and urged the authorities to do more to boost the city’s energy options instead.
They were responding to the latest round of hefty increases to electricity tariffs announced by the city’s two power suppliers on Tuesday, with the possibility of more to come.
Taking into account increases through this year, that works out to price rises of 6.4 per cent and 5.5 per cent respectively compared with this month.
The two companies are allowed an 8 per cent annual rate of return under an arrangement with the government to ensure a safe, reliable and efficient electricity supply at a reasonable rate.
