1st LD-Writethru: President Xi stresses tech advance to accelerate energy revolution

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for more technological progress in coal processing as the country is pushing forward a revolution in energy production and consumption.

Xi made the remarks when congratulating Shenhua Ningxia Coal Industry Group on start of its new coal-to-liquid facility, the largest in the world.

The project is capable of turning out 4 million tonnes of refined oil products each year.

Xi described it as a "useful exploration" for secure, effective, clean and low-carbon energy development and a major result of the country's innovation strategy.

It will help promote clean and effective use of coal, improve China's ability to guarantee energy security, and boost regional development, Xi said.

Xi urged safe, stable and clean operation of the Shenhua project, and hoped China will continue to improve its technological and industrial strength in coal processing.

The world's major energy producer and consumer, China is greening its coal-denominated energy mix. New energy technology, including electric vehicles and solar panels, is being vigorously promoted by the government.

China must strive to promote technological innovation and more rapidly translate scientific results into real productivity to facilitate economic transformation and reform, Xi said. Endi