Driving I&T

From the 1990s, when computers were not yet widely available, to today’s transition into the artificial intelligence (AI) era, the EMSTF has witnessed dramatic transformations in the engineering field. Keeping abreast of the latest technologies and industry needs, we proactively integrate I&T into our engineering and maintenance management, delivering more efficient, secure and sustainable services to lead the industry forward.

Faster and More Efficient Engineering Solutions

In 2022, the EMSD became the first government department to adopt the Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MiMEP) method for E&M equipment replacement. This approach involves pre-assembling some of the modules in off-site workshops before transporting them for on-site installation, significantly cutting on-site construction time by over half compared with traditional practices. To date, the EMSD has applied this technology in more than 90 projects.

Managing E&M Facilities with Digital Models

We have also been actively developing Building Information Modelling (BIM) and applying this technology to E&M asset management. This involves digitally constructing 3D models and a database of buildings and E&M systems to facilitate future maintenance, retrofitting and management. In recent years, we have been promoting “open BIM” vigorously to ensure that, regardless of the BIM software chosen, project teams (including the EMSD and contractors) can communicate seamlessly and share data during the construction phase. Lowering the barrier to BIM adoption enables us to support our clients in managing their E&M facilities more effectively.

Enhancing Energy Conservation and Maintenance Performance with Big Data and AI

The Regional Digital Control Centre located at the EMSD Headquarters is connected to nearly 400 government buildings to collect real-time E&M data, laying a solid foundation for big data applications. Leveraging big data, we successfully developed the ChillStream^®, an AI-based chiller plant optimisation system, in 2024 to help reduce energy consumption, which has been progressively installed at various client venues. Furthermore, we launched the Engentica in 2025, an AI platform specifically designed for E&M systems. This platform assists in executing tasks such as fault diagnosis and energy optimisation, significantly boosting daily maintenance efficiency, reducing downtime and minimising the impact on client venue operations. In doing so, it ushers in a smarter new paradigm for building maintenance management.

Enhancing Safety and Efficiency with Robots and Drones

To further enhance work efficiency and safety, the EMSTF actively adopts robots and drones to perform various tasks. These include developing a robotic dog team to explore confined spaces, developing the Autonomous Airfield Ground Lighting Cleaning and Inspection Robot, using drones to patrol prison facilities, and operating unmanned submersibles to inspect screens in seawater pumping stations. By flexibly employing these technologies across sea, land and air scenarios, we mitigate risks for frontline staff while improving speed and stability of inspection and maintenance work.