The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has unveiled its latest endeavor with the establishment of the Research Centre for Grid Modernisation (RCGM). This initiative seeks to spearhead innovations in power grid modernization and the development of advanced electric power systems. The primary objective is to support both Hong Kong's and the broader region's ambitions of achieving carbon neutrality and fostering sustainable energy development.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the PolyU campus, attracted leaders from 35 governmental bureaus, research institutes, professional bodies, industry associations, and representatives from key enterprises spanning various sectors. Notable attendees included academic leaders, experts, and scholars from 26 universities across Hong Kong, Macao, and mainland China.
Dignitaries, including government officials and industry leaders, delivered speeches highlighting the significance of PolyU's initiative. Mr. Tse Chin-wan, Secretary for Environment and Ecology of the HKSAR Government underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in realizing carbon neutrality goals. Prof. Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, expressed confidence in RCGM's potential to drive advancements in power systems.
Dr. Hao Yingjie, Secretary-General of the China Electricity Council, emphasized the initiative's collaborative aspect and its role in supporting the transition to clean and low-carbon energy. PolyU President Prof. Jin-Guang Teng highlighted the institution's commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning RCGM as an internationally recognized platform for tackling the challenges faced by the power and electricity industries.
The pressing need for grid modernization stems from increasing extreme weather events, unpredictable climate patterns, and aging infrastructure. RCGM aims to address these challenges by harnessing emerging technologies such as sensors, AI, and big data analytics to modernize power grids and enhance operational reliability. RCGM's mission extends beyond research and development; it aims to foster collaboration with academia, industry, and governments worldwide. By facilitating knowledge exchange and technology transfer, the Centre aims to build secure, sustainable, and affordable power and energy systems. Additionally, it seeks to power future smart and carbon-neutral zones in the Greater Bay Area.
Strategically located in Hong Kong, RCGM is well-positioned to leverage the city's infrastructure and government support for innovation and technology. The Centre aims to establish itself as a global hub for collaborative research in electric grid modernization, contributing to Hong Kong's vision of becoming an international innovation and technology hub. Noteworthy partnerships and support from various organizations and tertiary institutions underscore RCGM's significance in the field. The Centre has also enlisted the expertise of five distinguished scholars as honorary advisors, including academicians from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering.
At the launch event, RCGM announced a strategic partnership with Shenzhen Auto Electric Power Plant Company Limited to establish the PolyU-Autosun Joint Laboratory for Sustainable PowerTech Research in Modern Grid. This collaboration aims to drive research and development in electric vehicle charging technology, smart microgrids, and new energy storage systems. PolyU's Research Centre for Grid Modernisation represents a pivotal step towards advancing sustainable energy solutions and achieving carbon neutrality. Through collaboration and innovation, RCGM aims to address the evolving challenges in the power and electricity industries.
