Macau, 30 August 2024

With growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) in Macau, related safety issues are drawing increasing attention. To enhance public awareness of the safe usage and charging of EVs, CEM and the Macao Institution of Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (AEEMM) jointly held the “Seminar on Electric Vehicle Charging Safety Technology” at the Macao Science Center Convention Hall at 3 pm today (30 August). Representatives from the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), the Macau Fire Services Bureau, the AEEMM and CEM were invited as speakers to join the discussion covering topics of safety standards and networks for charging facilities in Macau, power battery technology, causes of accidents during EV charging, and fire safety, and so forth.

In his welcome speech, Mr. Bernie Leong, Chairman of CEM Executive Committee, said that in order to contribute to China’s efforts in achieving the dual carbon goals, CEM has been actively aligning with the Macau SAR Government’s green mobility policy. So far, CEM has installed 2,000 charging piles for EVs and 600 for electric motorcycles in the public car parks across Macau, with coverage rates of 97% and 94%, respectively, laying a solid foundation for the development of EV transportation. However, in recent months, Macau and neighboring regions have been grappling with a series of fire incidents caused by EV, triggering concerns among the public. It’s therefore imperative to discuss and find solutions to standardize the construction of charging infrastructures, and to improve vehicle owners’ awareness of proper and safe usage. 

In his opening speech, Dr. Raymond Kuong, President of the AEEMM, said he is grateful to CEM for organizing the seminar, as well as its resolution in implementing environmental protection policies, promoting the development of the EV industry, and ensuring charging safety. With its expertise and technology, CEM has provided dedicated support to ensure the smooth running of the seminar. As a bridge between the industry and the Government, the AEEMM will continue to uphold innovation and embrace the responsibility to provide an exchange platform for members and the industry, in order to push forward the formulation and improvement of industry standards, and contribute to the safety of EV charging.

The four speakers shared their insights on the following topics:  “Challenges and Opportunities Arising from Popularization of EVs for the Maintenance Industry in Hong Kong” by Mr. Wong Lui, Assistant Director of Gas and General Legislation at Hong Kong SAR EMSD;  “Discussion on EV Fire Safety” by Mr. Fong Wai Ip, Chief Divisional Officer of Macau Operational Department at Macau Fire Services Bureau; “Power Battery Technology and Design of Charging Stations in Macau” by Mr. Stephen Chok, Strategic Advisor of AEEMM; and “Full Life Cycle Management of Public Charging Facilities” by Mr. Hinnes Pun, Engineer of Customer Substation & Electricity Connection Unit of Transmission and Distribution Department at CEM. 

Mr. Philip Fung, Council President of the AEEMM, said in his closing address that inspired by the exciting speeches by experts and in-depth discussions, the attendees explored key issues in the EV field, such as battery technology, charging safety, future challenges, and feasible measures, which gave them a clear picture of the development direction in terms of EV safety and provided valuable inspiration for future research and practice in Macau. He looks forward to further in-depth exchanges and cooperation with different sectors in the future to promote the development of EV safety technology in Macau and ensure that EVs are safer and more reliable on the roads.

Other guests in attendance included: Mr. Poon Kwok Ying JP, Director of EMSD of Hong Kong SAR Government; Mr. Alfred Sit, JP, former Director of EMSD; Mr. Lei Veng Hong, Deputy Director of the Transport Bureau of Macau SAR Government; Mr. Ng Wing Fai, Head of the Mechanical and Electrical Facilities Department of the Land and Urban Construction Bureau (DSSCU); Mr. Lei Long Kit, Head of the Research and Planning Department of the Fire Services Bureau; Mr. Stanley Vong and Mr. Manuel Sin, Deputy President of AEEMM; Mr. Vong Kok Seng, Chairman of Customer Liaison Committee (CLC) and Mr. Benjamin Yue, Principal Advisor to CEM Executive Committee, among others.