The largest solar power system in Hong Kong is expected to generate 620,000 units of electricity annually, accounting for 0.01 percent of Hongkong Electric's annual total power output, supplying power to more than 100 households.

The company currently powers 560,000 households and businesses on Hong Kong Island and Lamma.

The HK$23 million project comprises 5,500 solar power modules installed on rooftops of power plant buildings, covering an area of 8,470 square meters or slightly larger than a standard football field.

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Each module has a capacity of 550 kilowatts and gives a peak output of 100 watts. It takes eight panels to generate sufficient power for an air-conditioner.

General manager for projects Frank Lau Fuk- hoi said about 80,000 units have been produced during the 29 days of testing, which began on July 1.

The new system is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emission by 520 tonnes a year, equivalent to planting 22,000 trees, Lau said.

He said the new generation of panels are 200 times thinner than conventional ones, and are more environmentally friendly.

Hongkong Electric said it will consider extending the system to other parts of the station after reviewing its effectiveness.