Does Macao have a photovoltaic energy contract?

The regulations require investors to enter into a 20-year contract for the purchase of photovoltaic energy with Macao’s sole energy service provider, Companhia de Electricidade de Macau (CEM). Essentially CEM will purchase the electricity produced to ensure investors profit within a reasonable period.

Are EVs a greener option for Macao?

Despite the potential pitfalls, Hongcai Zhang, assistant professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Macau, believes that EVs are a much greener option for Macao than petrol cars in the long run, since they will be increasingly powered from electricity generated from renewable energy sources.

Can Macao increase solar energy?

The Macao government also sees an opportunity to increase solar energy. To encourage the installation of PV systems, officials passed a set of safety and installation regulations in 2015.

Is natural gas a problem in Macao?

As a member of the Smart Energy Group of UM’s State Key Laboratory, which focuses on optimising clean energy use and production, Zhang believes expanding the use of natural gas poses major problems, especially in the city’s older districts. “Many buildings and [much of the] infrastructure in Macao are outdated.

Does China's Energy Strategy work for Macao?

According to the National Energy Administration of China, the share of clean and renewable energy in China’s electricity generation has almost doubled over the past decade, surging from 13 per cent in 2011 to 24.3 per cent in 2020. This bodes well for Macao. “Developing solar and wind energy has become China’s core energy strategy,” he says.

Is Macao a good place to drive an EV?

Macao is uniquely suited for EVs due to its size. In a 2021 research project, Zhang and his team found that the average Macao driver does not exceed 10,000 kilometres per year, or 27 kilometres per day. “For many families, it would be enough to charge their EVs one or two times a week,” says Zhang. “EVs are perfect for a small city like Macao.”