Analysis of Charging Station Distribution Differences Across Hong Kong Districts

Uneven distribution of charging facilities, with significant differences between core urban areas and New Territories

The distribution of charging stations across Hong Kong districts shows significant imbalances. Sha Tin District leads with 1,361 charging stations, accounting for 24% of the total in Hong Kong, which aligns with its status as a major residential and commercial center in the New Territories. This is followed by Wan Chai District (560) and the Islands District (458), accounting for 9.9% and 8.1% of the total respectively.

In terms of charging type distribution, Hong Kong Island areas (Central and Western District, Eastern District, Southern District, and Wan Chai District) are dominated by medium-speed charging, with a lower proportion of fast charging, which is related to the high-density urban characteristics and space limitations. In contrast, New Territories areas (such as Sai Kung District and Yuen Long District) have a significantly higher proportion of fast chargers, reflecting the emphasis on fast charging needs in newly developed areas. It is worth noting that although Sha Tin District has the most charging stations, the proportion of slow chargers is as high as 48%, which may be related to its early deployment of charging facilities and urgently needs upgrading.

Distribution Characteristics of Fast, Medium, and Slow Charging Facilities

The layout of different charging types reflects urban functional zoning and user demand differences

The distribution of charging facility types in Hong Kong shows distinct functional differences. Fast charging stations (above 50kW) are mainly concentrated in transportation hubs, major shopping malls, and highway service areas. Yau Tsim Mong District (33.6%), Sai Kung District (29.1%), and Kwai Tsing District (28.0%) have the highest proportion of fast chargers, as these areas are often important commercial centers or major transportation routes.

Medium-speed charging stations (7kW-50kW) are currently the most mainstream charging type in Hong Kong, dominating in most areas, especially in Hong Kong Island areas such as Central and Western District (85.5%), Southern District (78.0%), and Eastern District (76.1%). These charging facilities are mainly deployed in shopping mall parking lots, public parking lots, and residential areas, suitable for 2-4 hour charging scenarios.

Slow charging stations (below 7kW) are mainly distributed in residential areas and workplaces. Sha Tin District (48.0%), Yuen Long District (45.5%), and Kowloon City District (45.5%) have high proportions of slow chargers, reflecting the common characteristics of residential communities in these areas, suitable for overnight long-duration charging.

Hong Kong EV Charging Costs and Electricity Rate Structure

CLP and HK Electric price differences and their impact on EV users

The cost of charging electric vehicles in Hong Kong is affected by the service areas of different power suppliers. CLP serves Kowloon, the New Territories, and most outlying islands, with a rate of 107.4 HK cents per unit; HK Electric serves Hong Kong Island, Ap Lei Chau, and Lamma Island, with a rate of 119.6 HK cents per unit, about 11.4% higher than CLP.

Taking common EV models as an example, a Tesla Model 3 with a battery capacity of 60kWh would cost approximately HK$64.4 for a full charge in the CLP area, while in the HK Electric area, it would cost HK$71.8. In comparison, the fuel cost for a similar class of gasoline vehicle to travel the same distance is typically between HK$120-150, demonstrating the significant energy cost advantage of electric vehicles.

The two power companies also offer different EV charging incentive programs. CLP's "Low Carbon Driving Scheme" provides preferential electricity rates during off-peak hours for registered users; HK Electric's "Smart Charge" program offers comprehensive charging facility installation and management services. As electric vehicles become more widespread, it is expected that more differentiated pricing schemes will be introduced in the future, further reducing the cost of using electric vehicles.

Future Development Plans for Hong Kong's EV Charging Network

Infrastructure planning for the government's goal of achieving full adoption of zero-emission vehicles by 2035

The Hong Kong SAR Government has set a target to stop selling traditional fuel vehicles by 2035. To support this goal, the expansion and upgrading of charging infrastructure is key. The government plans to increase the number of public charging stations from the current 5,651 to 15,000 in the next 5 years, with a focus on increasing the proportion of fast chargers to at least 30%.

In terms of regional distribution strategy, the focus will be on strengthening areas with relatively low charging station density, especially Tai Po District, Tuen Mun District, and Sham Shui Po District. At the same time, there are plans to build super-charging corridors along highways and major roads, with a high-power charging station every 15-20 kilometers to support long-distance electric vehicle travel.

In terms of charging technology, Hong Kong will gradually introduce ultra-high power charging facilities of 350kW and above to support the 10-15 minute fast charging needs of the new generation of electric vehicles. In addition, the application of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) bidirectional charging technology will be explored to integrate electric vehicles into renewable energy systems, achieving efficient energy utilization and grid stability.