Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Energy: First draft of China's first energy law due by end of next year

The first draft of China's first energy law, which will shape the country's future energy policies, will be outlined before the end of the year, according to the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

Energy experts have called for the law, which needs two years to be passed by the legislature, to define clearly the regulations for foreign acquisitions and to set up an authoritative body through which all energy projects have to be approved.

Experts also recommend that the responsibilities of the central government and the local governments regarding the approval of energy projects should be stipulated, along with specific regulations on environmental and safety measures.