The energy supply and demand pattern of China: A review of evolution and sustainable development

Energy is the basis of social development. Practices show that national and regional economic development speed and degree are more obviously depending on the construction of modern energy supply support system. As one of the biggest developing countries of the world, the remarkable achievement of China during the last three decades is inseparable with the powerful support for energy. Nevertheless, the limitations of resource distribution and exploitation make the sustainable development of China's energy supply face numerous challenges. This paper reviews the evolution process of China's energy supply and demand pattern, analyzes from two dimensions: time and space, further puts forward the upcoming problems that may occur during the long-term, stable and sustainable development: Finally, several suggestions are proposed from the aspects of matching policy support, structure adjustment and layout optimization, which provide theoretical reference and practical guidance for the comprehensive management of the sustainable energy supply and demand development of China. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.