Engineering Community Explores Energy-Efficient Cooling Solutions at HKUST

On 9 August 2025, HKUST welcomed members of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) Hong Kong Branch Young Member Section (YMS) for a technical visit to the University's innovative centralised air-conditioning systems. The visit provided local engineering community with an opportunity to learn about energy-efficient cooling technologies and sustainable campus operations.

Guided by colleagues from the Campus Management Office, participants toured HKUST's central chiller plant and learned about the University's ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiency through innovative engineering solutions. The visit showcased key features of the system, including the hybrid cooling tower and seawater-cooled chiller system. Participants were highly engaged, asking questions and exploring HVAC design, system operations, and energy optimisation strategies. The tour demonstrated how HKUST has achieved significant energy and cost savings while reducing its carbon footprint through continuous upgrades to its district cooling infrastructure.

Through the visit, participants gained practical insights into energy-efficient building services design, cooling system optimisation, and sustainable infrastructure management. The visit promoted awareness of energy efficiency and energy conservation, demonstrating how innovative cooling technologies can reduce energy consumption and support low-carbon operations in densely populated urban environments and Hong Kong's hot and humid climate.