Power saver: Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang presents the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Best Practice Gold Award to Director of Drainage Services Raymond Cheung.

A four-year energy-saving target of 6% has been established for all bureaux and departments, using 2002-03 as the base year.

Speaking at the Awards for Energy Efficiency & Conservation in Government today, Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang said the move comes after the review of the Government expenditure on energy in early 2003. The Government's annual power bill averages about $1.9 billion.

"We should save electricity and set a good example for the community," Mr Tsang said.

Thirteen awards were presented at the ceremony, including the Best Practice Gold Award for the Drainage Services Department, while the Star Saver Gold Award went to the Fire Services Department. They both exceeded energy savings targets.

Director of Electrical & Mechanical Services Roger Lai said nearly 200 teams joined the competition, showing the high importance of energy saving within the Government.