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On November 16, the **Development and Reform Commission held a press conference for the month of November. Spokesperson Meng Wei said that the recent issuance of the \"Notice on Further Improving the Handling of Energy Used for Raw Materials Excluded from Total Energy Consumption Controls\" strengthens the foundation for accounting for energy used in raw materials from various aspects. It defines the basic concepts and specific categories related to energy used for raw materials, sets out specific requirements for improving the statistical and accounting systems for such energy use at all levels, details the procedures for deducting this energy use in the evaluation of energy-saving targets, enhances coordination with the energy-saving review system for fixed-asset investment projects, and puts forward specific requirements for ensuring proper implementation. Meng Wei explained that the concept of energy consumption for raw materials outlined in the Notice is in line with international standards. The deduction for energy used in raw materials allows for a more scientific and objective reflection of the actual energy usage in industries such as petrochemicals, coal chemicals, and others. This approach enhances the flexibility in managing total energy consumption, creates space for high-quality development, ensures reasonable energy use for high-level projects, and strengthens the resilience of industrial and supply chains, all of which are of great significance for the stable and healthy operation of the economy. Meng Wei said that it should be emphasized that the deduction for energy use in raw materials does not mean a relaxation of the requirements for the development of industries such as petrochemicals, chemical engineering, and coal chemistry; it is also not intended to encourage regions to develop such projects indiscriminately. On the one hand, it is necessary to continue to strictly enforce the project admission requirements. The development of related industries must still comply with industrial plans and policies, go through the necessary approval procedures, achieve advanced levels of energy efficiency, and effectively control carbon emissions and pollutant discharges – these requirements remain consistent. All regions and relevant agencies must implement the relevant policy requirements, resolutely curb the reckless development of projects with high energy consumption, high emissions, and low standards, and strictly enforce entry criteria for such projects in terms of policy compliance, procedural adherence, and technological advancement. On the other hand, continuous efforts are made to promote energy savings and improve energy efficiency in industries. The fact that energy used for raw materials is not included in the overall control of energy consumption does not mean that such energy can be used indefinitely and inefficiently. Tasks such as energy-saving reviews and energy-saving standards will continue to impose requirements on energy consumption for raw materials. All regions and relevant entities should encourage the accelerated development, promotion, and application of advanced energy-saving and carbon-reduction technologies in order to sustain efforts to improve energy efficiency.