News

Welcome Message from Department Head

It is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all of you on behalf of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at the Faculty of Construction and Environment.   Established in December 1981, BEEE has been dedicated to serving Hong Kong's building services engineering industry by promoting sustainable, efficient, and healthy indoor and urban living environments. As part of our mission, we offer a comprehensive range of study programs, from Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) to Masters (MSc and MEng) and even Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), ensuring our students receive world-class teaching and have the opportunity to participate in internationally leading research.   In today's rapidly urbanizing world, where we face the challenges of climate change and environmental pollution, the need for high-quality living environments has never been greater. With the global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, and 70% of people projected to live in urban areas, the role of future building engineers has become increasingly crucial. Our programs are designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to design high-performance buildings and building systems, leveraging the latest technologies such as sensor networks, AI, IoT, data science, and BIM.   At BEEE, our academic and teaching staff are actively engaged in research activities focused on three core themes: Building Energy, Building Environment, and Building Safety and Resilience. These research areas are fundamental to improving the sustainability, health, and safety of the built environment.   By joining us, you embark on a journey to learn and contribute to the promotion of smarter urban environments for a better and more sustainable future for humanity and our planet. I sincerely appreciate your interest in our department and programs, and I look forward to witnessing your successful and fulfilling journey with us.   Once again, welcome to the BEEE family. I extend my best wishes for your academic and personal growth during your time with us.   Prof. Asif Usmani Head of Unit Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering  

BEEE’s PhD student selected for the FCE Awards for Outstanding PhD Theses 2023/24

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is pleased to report that Dr Shi Wenchao, our PhD student who is under the supervision of Prof YANG Hongxing, has been selected as a recipient of the FCE Awards for Outstanding PhD Theses 2023/24.   This award recognizes the exceptional quality of Dr Shi's PhD thesis and his outstanding performance during the oral presentation. The FCE Awards, organized by the Faculty of Construction and Environment, aim to honor the most exceptional doctoral research conducted within the faculty.   In the thesis, Dr Shi developed a novel plate-type cross-flow indirect evaporative cooler with porous media (PIEC). The proposed PIEC can achieve intermittent spraying so as to shrink the operation time of the pump system and lessen the pressure drop in secondary air channels, noticeably reducing energy consumption compared with the traditional indirect evaporative cooler that needs continuous spraying.    The Department warmly congratulate Dr Shi on this remarkable achievement and look forward to his continued success and the positive impact his work will have on the field.    

Smart Design on Optimising Land Resources- Social Innovation Inventor –Design Competition 2023/24

The World Green Organisation (WGO) and the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) recently hosted the Award Presentation Ceremony for the Social Innovation Inventor Design Competition. The event celebrated innovative design solutions that addressed pressing social and environmental challenges.   The ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including: Officiating Guests: Mr. Lam Chi Man, David, JP, Under Secretary for Development Bureau Ms. Joanne Yung, Principal Environmental Protection Officer (Resources Recovery), Environmental Protection Department Ir Dr. Wong Ling Tim, Associate Head (Partnership) and Associate Professor, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University   Prize Presenters: Ms. Elizabeth Tai, Director – Corporate Affairs (Business Operations), CLP Power Hong Kong Limited Mr. Martin Putnam, Senior Manager, Sustainability, Airport Authority Hong Kong Mr. Michael Ng, Chief Executive Officer, Karin Group Mr. Alex Cheung, Chairman of Board of Governors, World Green Organisation Mr. Albert Oung, President, World Green Organisation Dr. William Yu, CEO, World Green Organisation   Guests - Judge Panel: Mr. M H Chiu, Assistant Manager, Sustainability, Airport Authority Hong Kong   The Social Innovation Inventor Competition aims to foster a culture of innovation and sustainability, empowering young people to develop solutions that address societal and environmental challenges. This year's event showcased a remarkable collection of innovative designs, demonstrating the creativity and problem-solving skills of the participants.   After a rigorous selection process, the champions in the secondary school and tertiary student categories were announced. The team from Pui Ching Middle School emerged victorious in the secondary school category, showcasing a visit to the recycling factory in the park and an exhibition on the history of Yuen Long, which can raise the environmental awareness and recycling knowledge of the public and visitors, and conserve the culture of Yuen Long in a sustainable way. In the tertiary student category, The University of Hong Kong secured the top position, impressing the judges with a design based on walled villages, continuing the traditional atmosphere and ambiance, while incorporating green elements to establish an intergenerational inclusive northern metropolis.   Under Secretary for Development Bureau, Mr. Lam Chi-man, praised the creativity and excellent performance of the participating students. He stated that the Northern Metropolitan Area is a strategic new development area, which will provide about 500,000 new residential units and about 500,000 new job opportunities, serving as the focal point for future population, industries and economic activities. The government will plan the Northern Metropolitan Area with a forward-looking and innovative concept, striving to achieve a sustainable carbon-neutral community. He firmly believes that the development of the Northern Metropolitan Area will bring unlimited opportunities for the younger generation, and he encourages students to participate in the future development of the Northern Metropolitan Area and help create a better living environment for Hong Kong.   Ms. Joanne Yung, the Principal Environmental Protection Officer (Recycling) of the Environmental Protection Department, also highly praised the outstanding and creative works of the participating students, who were able to integrate a wealth of innovative environmental technologies into the building design, cleverly connecting and interacting the buildings with nature. "The integration of building design and management with the concept of sustainable development, reducing the impact on nature, has become a global trend. To build a sustainable future for Hong Kong, we must vigorously promote the development of green buildings and work together to build a carbon-neutral city to protect the Earth."   Ir Dr. Wong Ling Tim, the Associate Head/Associate Professor of PolyU BEEE, who has been a judge for this competition for many years, is very satisfied with the outstanding performance of the students this year. He praised the students' positive and serious learning attitude, their in-depth understanding of the building environment, and their skillful use of information technology to vividly present their design concepts. He emphasized that Hong Kong's future environmental planning requires talents with professional skills, innovative spirit, and a strong grasp of technology. He encourages young people to develop their interests into professional expertise, becoming green building design talents, and contribute their knowledge to society to lead Hong Kong's progress.   The award presentation ceremony was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the participants, as well as the continued support and commitment of WGO and the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering , partners, and the wider community in promoting social and environmental sustainability through innovative design.   Photos of the event can be viewed here. For more details about the competition, please visit the official website of the World Green Organization (WGO) :  https://thewgo.org/website/chi/news/siiceremony2023-24/ 

Successful Training Camp at Xi'an Jiaotong University Under PRC Ten Thousand People's Scheme

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is pleased to announce the successful completion of a training camp held at Xi'an Jiaotong University from July 15 to July 22, 2024. The camp, organized under PRC Ten Thousand People's Scheme (萬人計劃), brought together 4 BEEE students, Dr Du Liangfen and Dr Shan Kui to engage in a comprehensive program focused on energy storage and conservation technologies.   The 8-day training camp provided participants with a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into China's "dual carbon" goal and the frontier of social construction in this area. Through a series of lectures and laboratory workshops, the students developed an in-depth understanding of hydrogen energy, energy storage, and energy conservation technologies, while also cultivating their hands-on research and practical abilities.   Highlights of the training camp included: • Gaining insights into the background and frontier of China's "dual carbon" goal social construction through lectures on energy storage and conservation. • Developing an in-depth understanding of hydrogen energy, energy storage, and energy conservation technologies, and cultivating hands-on research and practical abilities through laboratory workshops. • Exploring the application of energy storage and conservation technologies in the products of renowned new energy companies like LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd., and understanding the development of the new energy system. • Enhancing students' cultural identity by visiting the Jiaotong University Westward Relocation Museum and exploring historical landmarks like the Defensive wall and Terracotta Army.   The training camp at Xi'an Jiaotong University was a tremendous success, providing BEEE students with a comprehensive learning experience that combined theoretical knowledge and practical applications in the field of energy storage and conservation. The Department is grateful for the support of the University and the 'Ten Thousand People's Scheme' in making this event possible, and we look forward to continued collaboration in the future.   Photos of the event can be viewed here.  

BEEE Professor’s Election to the Young Member Section of the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Science

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is proud to announce that Professor Wei Minchen Tommy has been elected as one of the new members of Young Member Section (YMS) under the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences (HKAES) for the year 2024. The YMS serves as a platform for young professionals in the field to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the advancement of engineering.   The newly elected members of the YMS for 2024 will be tasked with important duties aimed at advancing engineering and science development in Hong Kong. These duties include: (a) Promoting engineering and science developments in Hong Kong. (b) Establishing strong links between academics and engineering. (c) Driving engineering-related entrepreneurship and commercialization. (d) Educating the public on matters relevant to engineering. (e) Fostering excellence among young professionals in engineering within Hong Kong. (f) Assisting the Academy in achieving its objectives.   About the Young Member Section (YMS) The Young Member Section (YMS) is a subset of The Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Science (HKAES) and is specifically tailored for young professionals in the field of engineering. YMS membership is open to individuals at or under the age of 45 at the time of admission.   About HKAES: Established in 1994, the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences (HKAES) is a prestigious organization dedicated to the promotion and advancement of the field of engineering in Hong Kong. HKAES aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and excellence in engineering, contributing to the advancement of society and the development of Hong Kong and our Nation.  

Successful International SureFire Workshop 2024 Explores Future Smart Firefighting Solutions

 The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) successfully held the 2nd International Smart Firefighting Workshop (SureFire Workshop 2024) in Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) on July 9, 2024. As an essential academic platform for smart urban resilience and firefighting, this workshop aims to address future urban fire threats and enhance smart firefighting capabilities. See event website on https://www.firelabxy.com/surefire2024   The workshop was co-chaired by Professor Asif Sohail Usmani and Dr. Huang Xinyan from the BEEE Research Centre for Smart Urban Resilience and Firefighting (SureFire) of PolyU. This workshop is part of the major project “SureFire: Smart Urban Resilience and Firefighting” funded by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council Theme-based Research Scheme (9th Round) (HK$ 33.33 million). The first SureFire workshop was held jointly by PolyU and Tsinghua University in Beijing in May 2023.   Over 70 research experts and scholars from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and overseas countries attended this one-day workshop. The opening ceremony was hosted by Prof. Fu XIAO, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment. Prof. XIAO delivered a speech on behalf of the organizers, introducing the faculty background and the SureFire project. Prof. Asif USMANI expressed his heartfelt wishes for further communication among the participants. The workshop featured seven keynote presentations. The keynote speakers were Dr. Xinyan Huang from PolyU, Dr. Andy TAM from the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Prof. Xinzheng LU from Tsinghua University, Dr. Ruggiero LOVREGLIO from Massey University, Ir. Dr. Young WONG and Celsius CHUNG from Arup Hong Kong, Prof. Qingsong WANG from University of Science and Technology of China, and Dr. Maryam GHODRAT from the University of New South Wales.   Speakers presented various emerging topics in fire safety, ranging from fire safety design, thermal safety management for battery systems, AI-driven smart, etc. By focusing on the latest research advancements and technological trends, fifteen oral speakers are invited to share their latest research progress in two parallel sessions, themed “Fire Safety and Resilience” and “Firefighting and Emergency Response”, together with 20+ poster presentations. At the end of the workshop, research-sharing and brainstorming activities further promote opportunities for future collaboration between different institutes. In addition, the laboratory tours to PolyU Fire Lab and campus were organized for visitors during the workshop.   The successful holding of the International SureFire Workshop 2024 not only reinforces the leading role of PolyU in the research field of smart city and smart firefighting but also provides a unique academic platform for scholars to share inspiring ideas and tackle hot research topics and challenges. Moreover, this workshop promoted interaction and networking among scholars from various industries, laying the solid foundation for interdisciplinary integration and in-depth collaboration between PolyU and the world.  

BEEE Team Awarded at the 2024 International Symposium of the Society for Information Display

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is proud to announce that a research paper co-authored by PhD student Ms Jiamin Guo and Professor Wei Minchen Tommy has been awarded the Distinguished Paper Award at the 2024 International Symposium of the Society for Information Display (SID), the premier global conference on display technology.   The paper, titled "Adaptive Display White Point under Various Ambient Conditions", proposes a groundbreaking algorithm that dynamically adjusts the white point of smartphone displays to optimize visual comfort and color accuracy under different ambient lighting conditions. This innovative technology has already been implemented in flagship mobile devices through successful knowledge transfer activities.   The SID International Symposium is the premier global forum for displaying the latest advancements in display technology. The Distinguished Paper Award is given to the most impactful research papers presented at the conference, selected by a panel of industry experts. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and creativity of BEEE research team, led by Ms Guo and Professor Wei, in developing solutions that enhance the user experience of digital displays.   The award-winning research was supported by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council and PolyU's internal research funding schemes. The Department will continue to invest in groundbreaking research and foster collaborations to drive progress in the field of display technology.  

BEEE Celebrates Remarkable Student Achievements at BEEE Industry Day 2024

On June 15th, 2024, the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) celebrated a momentous occasion with its inaugural BEEE Industry Day. This event, a testament to our dedication to academic excellence and fostering industry collaboration, was a platform to showcase our students' exceptional academic and research work.   The event, held at the 2/F Podium in Block Z on PolyU's campus, was attended by students, faculty, industry partners, and distinguished alums. The day's highlight was the Poster Exhibition, where BEEE students presented their capstone projects and research in Building Sciences and Engineering.   The event commenced with a warm welcome from the Acting Head, Ir Professor Mui Kwok Wai Horace, followed by the presentation of the highly esteemed PolyU BEEE 2023 Outstanding Alumni Award. This prestigious accolade was a tribute to the remarkable achievements and significant contributions of our BEEE alumni, who have left an indelible mark on the industry.   The ceremony continued with an inspiring speech from the Associate Head, Ir Dr Wong Ling Tim, who detailed the Industry Day Awards. These awards, a reflection of our department's focus areas, recognized students for their outstanding work in the fields of Building Energy, Building Environment, and Building Safety and Resilience. Their exceptional performance and the quality of their research exhibitions underscored the potential for significant advancements in these fields.   The Grand, Merit, and Pioneer awards were presented to students who demonstrated exceptional innovation, technical excellence, and commitment to Building Sciences and Engineering.   After the ceremony, guests were invited to the Poster Exhibition to engage with the students, learn about their projects, and network with industry professionals. A tea reception was held outside Z209, providing a platform for further discussions and collaborations.   The BEEE Industry Day 2024 was a resounding success. It showcased the talent and dedication of PolyU's BEEE students and served as a testament to the university's commitment to producing industry-ready graduates who are poised to shape the future of the building environment and energy engineering sector.   Photos of the event can be viewed here.

Empowering Communities through Sustainable Water Solutions: PolyU Students Make a Difference in Cambodia

In May 20 to 28, 2024, the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) organized an impactful Service-Learning project in Cambodia. A team of 15 PolyU students from BSE3S03E Living Environment for Low-income Communities, accompanied by 2 BEEE staff members, collaborated with the Cambodian Children's Advocacy Foundation Organization (CCAFO) to install water filtration systems in a learning centre serving over 300 children in remote villages.   The project addressed the pressing need for improved water quality and sustainable water access in the community. By working alongside local youths, the PolyU team installed the filtration systems and focused on knowledge transfer and capacity building.   "This Service-Learning project exemplifies our department's commitment to practical education and global citizenship," said Dr LT Wong, BSE3S03E subject teacher. "Our students had the opportunity to apply their technical skills to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need while also learning valuable lessons about community development and cross-cultural collaboration."   During the project, the BSE3S03E team worked closely with local staff to ensure the long-term sustainability of the water filtration systems. They provided hands-on training on the maintenance and operation of the equipment, empowering the community to take ownership of this vital resource.   The influence of the project transcends immediate necessities, as it paves the way for improved public health, enhanced daily practices, and overall community welfare. By enabling access to clean water, the project has the potential to revolutionize the lives of hundreds of children and their families, promising a healthier and more prosperous future.   The BSE3S03E Service-Learning project in Cambodia is a testament to the university's unwavering dedication to practical education and its role as a global frontrunner in tackling urgent societal issues. Through collaborative endeavors and knowledge exchange, PolyU students have left an indelible mark on the lives of those in need, fostering a brighter and more sustainable future for the community.   Photos of the event can be viewed here.  

BEEE PhD Student Teams Awarded in the 10th Hong Kong University Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is proud to announce that two teams of our PhD students, each team led by WONG Ho Yin and ZHANG Xiaoning, both supervised by BEEE Associate Professor Dr HUANG Xinyan, have won the Second and Third Prize in the 10th Hong Kong University Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition (HKUSIEC).   Ho Yin’s project, “Generation Alpha Building Emergency System”, initiated in the PolyU Maker Fund Programme 2021 and thus established a start-up, GABES Limited, received the Second Prize in the Start-up Category in the 10th HKUSIEC. The project is an Internet of Things (IoT) system comprising a wireless detectors mesh network and dynamic exit signs. The fire detector system, which utilizes artificial intelligence technology, can significantly reduce the number of false alarms and provide an early warning, while the dynamic exit sign system guides evacuees towards the safest evacuation paths, reducing evacuation time.   Xiaoning's project, “Smart Firefighting Robot”, began with the support of the 2023 PolyU Micro Fund (led PhD student WANG Meng) and received the Third Prize in the Entrepreneurship Proposal Category at the 10th HKUSIEC. Various artificial intelligence technologies are utilized to enable autonomous actions and support firefighters. Unlike other firefighting robots, this smart robot boasts high levels of autonomy and intelligence, making it user-friendly and efficient in improving the effectiveness of fire rescue and firefighting. By reducing casualties and property damage caused by fires, this invention provides vital support to firefighters and ushers in a new era of smart firefighting aimed at saving more lives.   Both projects are crucial to the novel smart firefighting technology developed at PolyU (the SureFire Project). This technology will be applied to the next generation of smart and resilient buildings, helping Hong Kong become the world's leading smart city.   HKUSIEC, which began in 2015, is the largest, most representative, and most authoritative innovation and entrepreneurship competition for university students in Hong Kong. The competition focuses on innovation and entrepreneurship, with categories in "Innovation" and "Entrepreneurship." To enhance the competition's credibility and acceptance, judges are invited from various fields, including the innovation and technology sector (academicians, university professors, experts, and scholars), as well as representatives and well-known individuals from the entrepreneurial and investment communities. Exceptional innovation and entrepreneurship projects will be selected to form the "Hong Kong SAR Delegation" to participate in the China International College Students' "Internet+" Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition, known as the "world's largest and best roadshow platform," and the "Challenge Cup," which is praised as the "Olympic event for contemporary Chinese university students in science and technology innovation."   The Department of BEEE congratulates Ho Yin, Xiaoning, and their teams on their outstanding achievements and wishes them continued success.