Global Concerns

THE GROWING IMBALANCE BETWEEN CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION

The result of the imbalance between consumption and production can only be addressed one of two ways.
1. Reduce consumption
2. Increase production and/or acquisition of energy resources

The second course of action results in negative environmental and human impact ranging from pollution and loss of natural habitat, to regional conflict, war and the loss human lives.

The effects of the impending shortfall is beginning to be felt around the world.

China launches ambitious energy-saving plan
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-11-25 00:01

To cope with crippling energy shortage, China launched a comprehensive energy saving plan Tuesday, effective from now to 2020.

The plan is the biggest and most ambitious one of its kind in China's history, said Zhao Jiarong, director of the department of environment resources conservation under the National Development and Reform Commission at a news conference.

By 2010, China set the goal to consume 2.25 tons of standard coal when producing 10,000 yuan (1,200 US dollars) of GDP, 0.43 tons fewer than that of 2002, said Zhao. In 2020, the figure is expected to decline to 1.54

For more information on this story visit: http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2004-11/25/content_394889.htm

PROJECTION FOR THE US

Table 8.10 Average Retail Prices of Electricity, 1960-2003