The Environment Bureau plans to table proposed legislation on the mandatory implementation of the Building Energy Codes to the Legislative Council in 2009, Secretary for the Environment Edward Yau says.

Mr Yau told lawmakers today the new law will propose Electrical & Mechanical Services Department-approved professionals be tasked to conduct verification of energy efficiency and energy audits for buildings.

The bureau has set up a task force to discuss with relevant trades the qualifications for and registration of such professionals.

Two funding schemes to support flat owners who conduct energy and carbon audits and energy-efficiency improvement projects will also be introduced within the next year, pending the Environment & Conservation Fund's views on the detailed arrangements.

Greening works

The fund has subsidised the greening works of 47 schools or social-service agencies since April, and the Government will continue to promote rooftop greening in buildings through this scheme, Mr Yau noted.

Eligible property owners may also apply for loans or subsidies from the Buildings Department and the Housing Society to conduct environmental protection works in their premises or in their buildings' common areas, such as installing energy conservation or water-saving devices and green landscaping.

To date, more than 40 organisations from property development and management sectors, professional bodies, universities, non-profit-making organisations and other business organisations have become "Carbon Audit Green Partners".