By Guo Jiaofeng, Gao Shiji, Li Weiming, Hong Tao and Wu Xu, Research Institute of Resources and Environment Policies, Development Research Center of the State Council (DRC), and Zhang Haiqi, Zhu Youhai and Tang Jinrong, China Geological Survey

Research report No 62, 2014 (Total No 4561)

Summary:

China has been consuming coal as its main energy source, bringing about a series of negative repercussions. In order to solve the serious problems of clean energy shortage, environmental pollution and climate change, as well as realize sustainable economic and social development, China should promote new energy reform. Combustible ice may help thanks to its large quantity, high efficiency, cleanness and low carbon intensity.

The exploitation and use of combustible ice can alleviate China's pressure to maintain energy security, promote environmental protection and reduce emissions in China. It can also develop into a new economic growth point. Combustible ice should become a new engine for "energy reform in China" and an important choice for the mid-long-term energy development strategy. China should increase the importance of combustible ice in China's energy strategy by making mid-long-term plans. It should also establish and improve laws and regulations, make efforts to exploitation technologies, and strengthen independent R&D capability.