Introduction  Economic development and environmental protection are in the focus of attention of specialists in various disciplines regarding the future development of society. On the globe energy chessboard, all kinds of questions, such as energy strategy, direction of energy development, low carbon and energy saving solutions, become quite confusing and challenging to professionals in the China energy and power industry.

  Method  This paper introduced the engery policies and trends of our country, and explained that the energy revolution is a policy-oriented and goal-driven process. Based on the current international and domestic situation regarding resources and environment, this paper sorted out the development direction of energy power: to improve energy efficiency and to adjust energy structure, by the means of clarifying the concepts of some main indicators, such as energy intensity , climate intensity of energy use and energy technology efficiency, and providing the quantitative analysis and comparison for energy structure. Meanwhile, for the problem of low carbon and emission reduction, which is inseparable from the energy development, the quantitative analysis and application prospect are discussed from the two aspects of emission reduction and centralized treatment after emission.

  Result  As a result, this paper demonstrates that the key to successful energy developemnt lies in scientific and technological innovation and adjustment of energy structure so as to enhance energy efficiency, develope renewable energy, and accelerate the transformation from traditional energy to clean energy.

  Conclusion  This work provides readers with a clear and basic understanding of energy trends for low carbon economy and sustainable social development. China is in the process of changing from fossil fuel-driven economic development model to sustainable development model.