Energy efficiency needs intelligent regulation
On Oct 1, 2008, one of the most far-reaching environmental regulations in the country's history came into effect - a directive requiring every government above the county level to make energy efficiency a part of its long-term plans.
The State Council's national decree outlines a series of energy-saving regulations at State-funded departments and organizations. It says that State-funded units at or above the county level must have offices to supervise energy use and audit energy consumption. Departments must make annual energy-saving plans and take specific action, such as using energy-friendly products.
The decree is a breath of fresh air in a hazy regulatory environment. Beijing clearly understands that reducing pollution can only happen when China stops wasting money on the inefficient use of energy.
