China's newfound LNG appetite drives up Asian energy costs

Spot prices double in six months as Beijing battles air pollution

20180131_China LNG imports

China's move away from coal-fired power plants is putting upward pressure on spot prices for liquefied natural gas.

TAKESHI KUMON, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Spot prices for liquefied natural gas are climbing in Asia as China imports more of the cleaner-burning fuel to combat air pollution.

Spot prices have jumped 110% in the six months through mid-January. The rise is expected to ripple through energy markets across the region, pushing up electricity costs for households and manufacturers alike.

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