China Says Tech Growth a Challenge to Predicting Energy Demand

China Says Tech Growth a Challenge to Predicting Energy Demand China faces greater uncertainty in forecasting energy demand as structural changes in the economy and the rapid expansion of new industries reshape consumption patterns, according to a top government official. Demand over the past five years surpassed the government’s expectations, said Ren Yuzhi, director‑general of the planning department at the National Energy Administration. The growth of artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and other emerging sectors is compounding the problem for energy planners trying to map out the next five.