China will phase out coal but for now it’s essential in the energy mix: senior climate official
- Environment ministry’s head of climate change says coal-fired power stations are needed to ensure stability of supply in move towards peak emissions
- China must balance environmental goals with other priorities, such as economic growth and easing poverty, says Li Gao
Even though coal will play a less dominant role in China’s energy mix, it remains essential for both domestic energy consumption and overseas investment, at least for the near future, says a senior Chinese climate official.
Li Gao, head of the climate change office at the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, made the comments at a press conference on Tuesday, following pledges made by Chinese President Xi Jinping last week to restrict the country’s coal industry as part of China’s efforts to cut global emissions.
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“Coal used to be our main source of energy supply, but the role of coal-powered plants will undergo a massive change,” Li said.
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Last week’s pledge was part of China’s efforts to cut emissions. Last year, Xi announced that China would bring its emissions to a peak before 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2060.