Comparative Studies of Carbon Footprint for Traditional and All-Electric Homes: A Case Study of Hong Kong

With proven technology at commercially viable costs around the world to switch to zero-carbon electricity, home electrification is currently the most viable solution to achieve carbon neutrality in residential homes. A comparative analysis of the carbon footprint for traditional homes (TH) and all-electric homes (AEH) in Hong Kong is conducted by analysis of the fuel mix for electricity generation and consumer behavior regarding the use of electric or non-electric appliances and transportation in this paper. It provides a better understanding of quantifying residential greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by employing data provided by the government and local electricity and gas companies in Hong Kong. The results validate a 45% reduction in energy cost and a 24.7% reduction in GHG emissions annually by electrifying household appliances and vehicles. In particular, electrifying household appliances will save 8.9% in energy costs and reduce GHG emissions by 4.3% annually.