Power Shortages Across China Reveal Fundamental Energy Policy Challenges
Article from: OGEL 5 (2011), in China Energy Law and Policy
Introduction
June 2011 - China is currently experiencing power shortages which this summer may prove to be the worst since 2004 and possibly since 1949. These shortages arise from continuing policy incoherence in the power sector and will effect industrial output in the short-term. Each year a degree of tightness in supply arises during the summer as air-conditioners are turned on. But this year the shortages have started at least two months earlier than usual, in March and April, triggering a slight decline in the rate of growth of industrial production.