Hong Kong Incentive Program for OGVs Using Cleaner Fuel While Berthing

Starting from September 26, 2012, ocean-going vessels (OGVs) will be eligible for a 50 percent reduction in port facility and light dues if they switch to cleaner fuel while berthing in Hong Kong waters. This incentive program will last for three years.

The owner, operator or his agent of OGVs joining the program should first make a one-off registration for their vessels with the Environmental Protection Department (EPD). The registration exercise will commence on September 17. Upon registration, eligible OGVs can apply for a reduction in port facility and light dues for every port call to Hong Kong under the scheme with the Marine Department (MD) starting from September 26.

“The government has been implementing a package of 22 measures, targeting various major polluting sources, with a view to improving the air quality in Hong Kong,” Hong Kong Secretary for the Environment, Wong Kam-sing, said.

“Reducing marine emissions is one of our priorities and the launch of the incentive scheme is a step forward to achieving this goal.”

Mr. Wong said that under the incentive program, OGVs would enjoy a 50 percent reduction in port facility and light dues by switching from bunker oil to fuel with sulfur content of not more than 0.5 percent for their auxiliary engines, boilers and generators while at berth in Hong Kong waters. He commented that the incentive program would help reduce vessel emissions and improve the air quality around the port area.

In his 2012-13 budget speech, Hong Kong Financial Secretary announced the initiative to reduce by half the port facility and light dues charged on OGVs using low-sulfur fuel while berthing in Hong Kong waters.

In 2011, about 32,500 calls to Hong Kong were recorded. They are subject to port facility and light dues based on their tonnage at US$5.5 per 100 tons for every port call to Hong Kong.