China's energy efficiency and greener growth

Despite intensive efforts to reduce energy usage, China's economy remains highly energy intensive, even compared with other upper middle-income economies. 

Overall, President Xi's call for an energy revolution in June 2014 and the government's Energy Development Strategy Action Plan of November 2014 (Action Plan) set the tone for the energy sector in the 13FYP. 

"During 2016-2020, China is expected to strive for a huge improvement in energy efficiency, clean energy and rationalised consumption. In addition, we expect pollution controls to be strengthened during the 13FYP to tackle growing discontent about widespread smog and demand for 'blue skies'", says Barclays. 

Stricter environmental policy and higher pollution standards are expected to further force the 'energy revolution', continuing to push the economy along the path of 'green growth' started in the 12FYP.