China's power shortage this year will not be so severe as in 2004, but the gap on the whole will remain unchanged, according to the forecast recently made by China Electricity Council (CEC).

It is predicted that there will be 70 million KW more generating capacity. Some 25, 000 kilometers of transmission lines at 220 KV or above with a total power transformation capacity of 140 million KVA will be put into use.

China will need about 100 million tons of coal for power generation in 2005. The growth rate of contractual prices to be reached by major coal providers and users will far exceeded that given by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

In addition, according to department concerned, the incoming water in major rivers this year will remain low to normal, the increase of hydropower generation will be limited except for the Three Gorges.

With a demand growing by 13 percent, China will consume 2,456 billion KWh of power, 282.5 billion KWh more than last year.

Overall, there will still be a power shortage in China but the situation will be better than last year provided there are no major problems with coal.

China's power shortage is the most serious in the third quarter with a shortage of approximately 20 to 25 million KW. Taking the uncertainties such as incoming water quantity at hydraulic power stations, climate, coal supply into consideration, some areas will face a grim situation at some time.

By People's Daily Online