Hong Kong government will continue to work closely with the electronic industry, the photovoltaic (PV) industry to promote research and development in solar energy, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology Eddy Chan said on Tuesday.

Addressing a conference on "Promoting the Technology and Industry of Photovoltaics" at the Hong Kong Electronic Fair (Spring Edition) 2009, Chan said the government would also promote and facilitate the wider use of PV and cleaner and greener energy.

Chan noted that building-integrated photovoltaics had become one of the fastest growing segments within the fast growing PV industry.

He said, "the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation has decided to establish a new cluster on Green Tech in the Science Park focusing on renewable energy and environmental technologies. Solar energy will be one of the key elements of the new cluster."

He added that besides putting in place infrastructural facilities, the government also provides funding support to encourage applied research and development facilities.

Furthermore, to strengthen its edge as a gateway to the Mainland market, Hong Kong had established various collaboration programs with Mainland authorities in the areas of innovation and technological development, Chan said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 14, 2009)