China aims to ensure electricity supply

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-29-2008 08:52

Measures are being taken to ensure the supply of coal-fired electricity, which is threatened by severe weather in much of the country.

The National Development and Reform Commission says 13 power grids at the provincial level have been temporarily switched off to limit power usage.

The National Development and Reform Commission says 13 power grids at the provincial level have been temporarily switched off to limit power usage.

China is grappling with an electricity supply shortfall of about 69 million kilowatts. The country is heavily dependent on cheap coal as an affordable energy resource. Local railway bureaus have been ordered to step up coal transportation.

Zhu Hongren, deputy director of Bureau of Economic OPeration, NDRC, said, "In this difficult situation, we will adhere to the PEOPLE FIRST principle. We should make it a priority to ensure the power supply to consumers which is related to public interests and national security. High energy-consuming and high polluting companies should be limited in their electricity usage. And we should be well prepared for an emergency situation, in order to better deal with disasters brought by bad weather conditions."

Editor:Zhang Ning