#China #Beijing #Energy Transition #carbon markets #Energy Economy

The 16th Launch of Forecasting & Prospects Research Reports on Energy Economy

On January 11, 2026, the Beijing Institute of Technology hosted the 16th edition of its annual conference titled "The 16th Launch of Forecasting & Prospects Research Reports on Energy Economy". This significant event gathered about 3,000 participants, both online and offline, illustrating the growing interest in energy issues.

During this conference, six pivotal reports were released aimed at providing insights into the evolving landscape of energy in China and globally. The reports covered topics such as China's Energy Development Prospects for the 15th Five-Year Plan Period and International Crude Oil Price Analysis and Forecasting in 2026. The research was spearheaded by distinguished Professor Yi-Ming Wei and his team, focusing on essential developments shaped by the previous year's changes in energy economics and climate policy.

Key Highlights from the Reports

Among the notable features of this year's reports was the deep dive into China's Energy Development Prospects. Professor Hua Liao emphasized that the foundation for a new-type energy system will be established during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. Furthermore, traditional fossil energy consumption is anticipated to begin its decline, marking a critical shift in China's energy consumption pattern. This transition underscores the significance of developing new energy sources as a method for enhancing macroeconomic regulation.

The report titled Research and Outlook on China's Energy Economy Index 2026 presented a positive outlook for the energy economy, with expectations for stability and improvement in 2025. Professor Baojun Tang highlighted that the hydrogen energy industry is poised for strong growth, alongside the sectors of electric vehicle lithium batteries and photovoltaics, which are set to attract considerable market investment.

In another influential report led by Dr. Yun Wu, the Research on the Global Energy Transition Index (2015-2024) pointed to a favorable trajectory in global energy transitioning by 2024, despite the increasing vulnerabilities in energy trade networks which raise concerns about disparity and energy equity across nations.

Analyses of Market Dynamics

On the subject of oil pricing, Professor Lutao Zhao forecasted a continuation of a looser market pattern in 2026 with Brent oil prices estimated between US$53-63 per barrel. He suggested that geopolitical tensions could further destabilize this sector, creating fluctuations in pricing.

The vast developments in carbon markets were another exciting focus, as noted by Professor Ke Wang. China's national carbon market has experienced rapid growth and is expected to foster more active trading going forward. Insights highlight the need for better alignment with international pricing mechanisms and cross-border emission-reduction agreements.

Lastly, the report on Low-Carbon Computing Power Services delivered by Professor Ronggang Cong presented a roadmap for enhancing the efficiency and integration of China's computing power industry, intending to evolve from a mere stronghold in computing power to a leader in sustainable computing solutions.

Engaging Expert Dialogue

Throughout the conference, a vibrant discussion unfolded among government officials, industry experts, academics, and stakeholders. The atmosphere was characterized by extensive engagement and knowledge sharing, with a variety of perspectives contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the energy sector.

The event concluded with a commentary session that allowed for deeper analysis of the released findings, further emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among experts in addressing energy challenges. The conference was jointly organized by several prestigious institutions, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing energy research and policy.

For full access to the reports, please visit the official website of CEEP. This annual conference not only marks a milestone in energy research but serves as a crucial platform for fostering dialogues that will shape the future of energy economics.