Energy-intensive aluminium production in the hydropower-reliant Chinese province helps drive the regional economy, but authorities say that persistent drought conditions necessitate power rationing.
Finding the right balance between energy security and climate action will not be easy, and starts with building more battery storage and investing in flexible grid technology. But turning straight back to coal is not the answer.
China is facing a power shortage due to heatwaves and drought, affecting the Yangtze River basin in particular, home to several manufacturing hubs and a large population.