Energy Security in China: An Analysis of Various Energy Sources

Abstract

After more than 30 years of fast expansion, China has become the world’s second-largest economy and the largest energy consumer and C02 emitter. In 2010, China consumed 3.2 billion tons of coal equivalents (TCE) and 4.2 trillion kWh of electricity, up by 6 per cent and 13.7 per cent respectively from a year earlier. It is estimated that from 2010 to 2035, global energy demand may increase by 30 per cent, in which China and India will contribute 50 per cent of the growth (Figure 5.1, IEA, 2011). Facing such a rapid increase in demand, how to meet the country’s energy needs and avoid environmental damage on a massive scale will become huge challenges on China’s future economic development and prosperity.