Video | Building a Strong Energy Nation Included in Five-Year Plan for the First Time; Energy Becomes Greener and More Secure

The “14th Five-Year Plan” Outline for the first time includes the construction of a “Strong Energy Nation” in its five-year plan and systematically plans for China’s energy development over the next five years. What is the significance of these new initiatives and plans for our country’s energy development? Let’s look at expert interpretations.

The “14th Five-Year Plan” Outline proposes to deeply implement a new energy security strategy, accelerate the construction of a clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient new energy system, and build a strong energy nation. Experts say that including the construction of a “Strong Energy Nation” in the five-year plan for the first time is a highlight of the energy development section of the plan.

Researcher at the National Development and Reform Commission Energy Research Institute, Su Ming: Based on the tremendous achievements we have made since the 14th Five-Year Plan, we now have the foundation and conditions to transform our energy system from large to strong. Our technological equipment level in energy and new energy is now highly competitive globally. On the other hand, looking toward the future of building a modern socialist country, we also cannot do without the support of a strong energy nation. From this goal perspective, it is also a goal we must achieve.

To build a strong energy nation, the plan outlines five major initiatives, including implementing a ten-year doubling action for non-fossil energy, strengthening the clean and efficient use of fossil energy, and accelerating the construction of a new power system. Major projects such as water and hydropower integrated bases, “Shagehuang” new energy bases, offshore wind power bases, coastal nuclear power, and power transmission channels are all included in the 109 major projects of the plan.

It is worth noting that among the 20 key indicators for economic and social development in the next five years listed in the plan, the proportion of non-fossil energy in total energy consumption has been added. By 2030, this proportion is expected to reach 25%, highlighting the importance of developing non-fossil energy.

Researcher at the National Development and Reform Commission Energy Research Institute, Su Ming: In the “14th Five-Year Plan,” the goal of adjusting the energy structure has been given a more prominent position, and higher requirements have been proposed for energy structure adjustment. This demands further construction of a new energy system and accelerated development of non-fossil energy.

As the energy transition accelerates, the capacity for energy security must also be stronger. The “14th Five-Year Plan” outlines that by 2030, China’s comprehensive energy production capacity should reach 5.8 billion tons of standard coal. Experts say this fully demonstrates China’s determination to rely on domestic resources and enhance autonomous security capabilities.

Researcher at the National Development and Reform Commission Energy Research Institute, Su Ming: We expect that by the end of the “14th Five-Year Plan,” our energy self-sufficiency rate will further increase. Considering that current coal and oil production capacities are generally stable, and natural gas capacity is increasing by about 10 billion cubic meters annually, most of this future growth will rely on non-fossil energy sources. This also reflects the coordinated unity of our energy security assurance and green low-carbon transition.