China posts world's highest degree of self-sufficiency in energy use

The degree of self-sufficiency in China's energy use achieved 94 percent last year, the highest in the world, said Zhu Zhixin, vice minister in charge of the National Development and Reform Commission.

China is a large energy consumer and a giant energy manufacturer. In terms of China's energy issue, the import volume of energy should be considered, as well as its energy structure, said Zhu at a forum held here on Friday.

Government statistics show the supply of China's energy mainly relies on coal, oil and natural gas. In the total energy supply, coal makes up two thirds and meets most domestic demand.

Last year, China yielded 1.96 billion tons of coal and imported 120 million tons of oil, with the export of coal being 90 million tons. China has made great progress in using new energy and renewable energy, said Zhu.

According to him, China has the largest consumer group of solar water heater, and marsh gas is getting spread rapidly in rural areas. China is promoting the building of a resource-saving and environment-friendly society, Zhu said.

"The soaring crude oil price, to some extent, will urge domestic companies to cut down energy consumption, upgrade technology levels and enhance technology innovation," said Zhu.

Source: Xinhua