Debate on Three Gorges Dam

Is the energy sector in crisis?

By Christoph Frei (China Daily)
Updated: 2011-05-26 07:59

China is facing a real challenge, or is it a crisis, in managing the consequences of power shortage in many regions at a time when recent events in neighboring Japan remind us of the interrelationship between nature and our fragile natural resources. There is also concern in China and throughout the world over the effects of global warming.

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The specter of dried up riverbeds and advancing deserts has caused much anxiety among the public. But it is not possible to directly link the water shortage along the Yangtze River and the consequent reduction in power produced by hydroelectric plants to this phenomenon. It is a timely reminder, though, that when we draw plans we need to consider the consequences of our actions.

The world has watched in amazement the growth that China has enjoyed. Such unprecedented economic growth comes both with risks and opportunities when we consider the challenge of providing sustainable supply of energy for the greatest benefit of all. It is at times like these that we sometimes need to step back from the fast pace of growth to remember that even the word "crisis" has two aspects: one representing potential risk and the other representing opportunity.

There is a real risk that as China continues to grow at such an astounding rate that the energy sector will not be able to keep pace with demand. There is also the added risk that the choices we make today to meet this demand could lead to greater risks. That's why we welcome moves to develop a low-carbon economy.

As China becomes the largest consumer of energy in the world, being able to achieve an efficient and sustainable energy system will be a critical challenge facing the sector. The balance between failure and success often rests on a knife's edge, but a transparent, stable and strong energy policy framework with clear long-term objectives is crucial for delivering success. Thus China's scientific approach to policy planning holds great promise.

As the word "crisis" shows, where there are risks there are also opportunities.