Wei Zhihong

Policies to promote energy conservation in China

Abstract Various characteristics of the Chinese energy system have contributed to inefficient energy use. In recent years, severe energy shortages in China and rising international concerns over greenhouse gas emissions have sparked greater interest in efforts to promote energy conservation and reduce Chinas currently high levels of energy waste. This paper briefly presents the results of a series of long-term energy and carbon emissions scenarios for China. Based on these results, this paper then identifies the following policy options and measures as the most effective means for improving the efficiency of energy use in China; re-adjusting the structure of Chinas economy, improving Chinas energy pricing system and improving the efficiencies of Chinas energy-generating and end-use technologies.