China's centrally dispatched power plants had 220 million tonnes of coal stocks as of October 27, enough for more than 35 days of consumption and ensuring sufficient supply towards the peak winter months, said an official with the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

As temperatures plunge across northern China, with many regions reaching winter thresholds earlier than usual, Li Chao, deputy director of the Policy Research Office of the NDRC, outlined the country's robust preparations for the winter heating season in an October 31 press briefing.

Production of raw coal and natural gas grew 2.0% and 6.4% year on year, respectively, during the first nine months. As of the end of September, China's total installed power capacity reached 33.72 TWh, up 18% from the previous year. In October, a high level of 56,000 rail wagons of coal were loaded averagely each day, he noted.

Underground gas storage facilities have completed their annual injection targets and enter the winter season at full storage capacity, Li added.

In addition, cross-regional power transmission capacity peaked at 150 GW by the end of September, facilitating the transfer of surplus electricity between regions. Over 100 GW of new energy storage capacity has been installed, enhancing the system's flexibility. Both gas storage capabilities and pipeline peak-shaving capacity have been further strengthened compared to last year.

These efforts, Li said, have laid a solid foundation to ensure energy security and public comfort through the winter.

The NDRC plans to maintain rigorous oversight and coordination, boosting energy output and ensuring full compliance with long-term energy supply contracts. Emergency planning is also being prioritized, with the NDRC preparing for extreme weather events such as blizzards and ice storms.