Insights from the 15th Launch of Energy Economy Research Reports in Beijing
On January 12, 2025, the Center for Energy and Environmental Policy Research at the Beijing Institute of Technology hosted the 15th launch of its annual research reports focused on the energy economy. This event showcased eight detailed reports that reflect the latest shifts in both international and domestic energy markets as well as recent developments in climate policies.
Led by esteemed Professor Yi-Ming Wei, the research team provided findings drawn from a year of intensive investigation. The reports, which have become a staple in energy discourse since their first release in 2011, are highly regarded for their insightful analysis, drawing considerable media attention and public interest.
Highlighted Reports
Professor Yi-Ming Wei, who oversees the Beijing Laboratory for System Engineering of Carbon Neutrality, opened the conference by introducing notable experts in attendance. Also present was Professor Ben-Cong Wang, Vice President of Beijing Institute of Technology, who emphasized the importance of these reports in supporting national strategies on energy management and carbon reduction. He noted that the findings align closely with China's commitment to enhancing energy security and fostering low-carbon growth.
During the event, several key topics were discussed, with research reports covering diverse aspects of the energy economy:
I. Macroeconomic Trends in Energy Economics
The upcoming year is projected to see energy economics serve as a pivotal stabilizing force within China's macroeconomic landscape. Notably, sectors such as wind power and photovoltaics are expected to demonstrate substantial growth, while biomass and hydropower will uncover new possibilities. These trends highlight the ongoing transition toward cleaner, low-carbon energy initiatives, which are essential drivers of the evolving energy economy.
II. Energy Market Development
As we move through 2025, global crude oil demand is anticipated to experience slower growth compared to supply, putting downward pressure on prices. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and competition among major powers will likely contribute to volatility in oil pricing. Forecasts suggest that Brent and WTI crude prices could stabilize between $67–$77 and $62–$72 per barrel, respectively. Furthermore, price indices of essential raw materials for energy transition have exhibited fluctuations, signaling a complex market landscape.
III. Energy Technology and Industrial Development
The introduction of the EU's New Battery Law poses potential risks, including economic losses and job reduction within both China and the EU due to stringent carbon regulations. As the EU boosts lithium battery production, complications surrounding capital and labor shortages may raise costs, impacting the overall development in these two regions. Furthermore, carbon capture technologies remain a focus, given their technical rigor and high capital investment requirements. Advancements in these technologies are crucial for enhancing competitiveness across various energy sectors, especially as digital economies grow, leading data centers to account for a significant portion of total electricity usage.
IV. Global Climate Governance
The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in climate governance has opened new avenues for addressing climate issues effectively. Enhancements in natural language processing and deep learning offer fresh insights into climate strategies. China's national carbon market, which has evolved over three years, is gaining momentum with a solid regulatory framework in place, achieving tangible emission reduction outcomes.
The press conference attracted a wide array of media coverage, with about 30 outlets—such as China Media Group and People's Daily Online—reporting on the findings. The event saw around 3,000 participants engaging through both online and offline channels, highlighting the community's keen interest in energy trends and environmental policies.
For comprehensive insights, the full reports can be accessed on the
Center for Energy and Environmental Policy Research website.
This event not only reflects the ongoing commitment to sustainable energy practices but also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary research in advancing global climate solutions. As we look toward the future, the findings from this year's reports will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping energy policies and practices, both within China and globe-wide.