By Zhao Changwen, Research Department of Industrial Economy, DRC & lv Bin, Energy Research Institute of National Development and Reform Commission.

Research Report, No. 29, 2020 (Total 5773) 2020-3-9

Abstract: China’s energy system has successfully withstood the test posed by the novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic, but some problems also loomed up with the following features. One, it is a top priority to ensure energy supply and the significant role of coal in energy system still remains principal; two, the decisive role of China has become increasingly prominent during the slump in oil and gas prices; three, the demand for energy has dropped dramatically and appropriate countermeasures need to be made to address the retaliatory rebound; and four, the air quality has partially improved and a three-pronged approach is needed in the case of haze governance. The fundamental trend of China’s energy development has not changed by the epidemic. In the coming period, the basic judgments of China’s energy development trend can be narrowed down to the following aspects. First, the energy demand trend depends on industrial policies and structures; second, the changes in oil market pattern will help to alleviate energy safety pressure; third, the challenging environmental problems and climate change will forge ahead energy transformation; fourth, the rebalancing issue between traditional and new energies in the context of a slowing demand for energy should not be neglected; and fifth, new energy industry is expected to become China’s new competitive industry. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China’s energy development needs to concentrate on pursuing high quality in a systematic manner and highlight safety, synergy, innovation, terminal consumption and green growth.

Key words: novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic, energy system, transformation