The use of energy in China: Tracing the flow of energy from primary source to demand drivers

We present a map of the transformation of energy in China as a Sankey diagram. After a review of previous work, and a statement of methodology, our main work has been the identification, evaluation, and treatment of appropriate data sources. This data is used to construct the Sankey diagram, in which flows of energy are traced from energy sources through end-use conversion devices, passive systems and final services to demand drivers. The resulting diagram provides a convenient and clear snapshot of existing energy transformations in China which can usefully be compared with a similar global analysis and which emphasises the potential for improvements in energy efficiency in ‘passive systems’. More broadly, it gives a basis for examining and communicating future energy scenarios, including changes to demand, changes to the supply mix, changes in efficiency and alternative provision of existing services.

► A Sankey Diagram has been created to show the complete picture of energy transformation in China.
► The Diagram traces energy transformations from source to final service.
► The diagram is organised by technologies, enabling prioritisation and allowing future calculation of efficiencies.
► The diagram is contrasted with an equivalent diagram for global energy use.
► Armed with the diagram we can now examine the system-wide consequences of future changes to China's energy system.