China to offer lighting subsidies

The world's top emitter of greenhouse gases is trying to save about 6.2 million kilowatts of electricity by placing about 120 million units of energy-efficient lighting into use that will be partially subsidised by the government. The Chinese are hoping the 600 million yuan subsidies – which will go to the supply companies to make the bulbs more affordable to the public- will offset 6.2 million tons of carbon dioxide and 62,000 tons of sulfur dioxide. Major electronics companies like Panasonic and Philips are among the 23 companies participating in the programme. The government sold about 3.7 million bulbs in Beijing last year at a subsidised price of 1 yuan, 9 yuan cheaper than the regular retail price, and the government is hoping to sell 10 million more bulbs this year.