In an effort to help curb emissions, the government has vowed to promote hydroelectric, nuclear, solar and wind energy, as well natural gas extracted from garbage dumps and coal mines.

In the country's first white paper on its energy conditions and policies, Beijing pledged to give top priority to developing renewable energy.

"China's energy development emphasizes thrift, cleanness and safety," says the white paper titled "China's Energy Conditions and Policies."

The share of renewable sources in China's energy consumption rose from 4 percent in 1980 to 7.2 percent last year, according to the paper. However, it notes that the energy structure is still largely based on coal, and will be for a long time.

"China will pay more attention to the clean utilization of energy resources, especially coal, and make it a focus of environmental protection," the paper said. "As a responsible developing country, China attaches great importance to environmental protection and prevention of global climate change."