Energy Insider: Beijing Breathes Clear Air

In today’s Caixin energy news wrap: China plans to build up the photovoltaic industry; Shenzhen power consumption hits a record high; state mining giant expects to report 10% profit growth.

Beijing meets national air quality standards in 2021 for the first time

China’s capital in 2021 for the first time met a national standard for the concentration of small, hazardous airborne particles known as PM2.5 in the air, according to the city government. Average readings of PM2.5 fell to 33 micrograms per cubic meter in Beijing over the whole of 2021, falling below the national maximum of 35 micrograms. To improve air quality, the city reduced coal consumption from 21.8 million tons in 2012 to less than 1.5 million tons, a city official said.