GUOTAI HAITONG SECURITIES·2025-09-11 11:23Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Overweight" rating for the coal sector, highlighting the sustained demand for coal in the global energy landscape [5][11]. Core Insights - The fundamental cause of frequent global electricity shortages is the rapid growth in electricity demand, which is not matched by effective solutions to supply-side structural bottlenecks. Traditional energy sources, particularly coal, remain crucial for the stability of the global electricity system in the medium to long term [3][11]. - Global electricity demand is projected to grow at a rate of 4.4% in 2024, significantly outpacing the global GDP growth of 2.9%. This growth is driven by three main factors: deep electrification in industrial sectors, rapid expansion of data centers driven by artificial intelligence, and increased electricity demand due to extreme weather events caused by climate change [9][15][27]. Summary by Sections Investment Recommendations - The report suggests that the pressure on coal resources may have peaked, and it anticipates a continued increase in global coal demand over the next 5-10 years. Recommended companies include China Shenhua, China Coal Energy, Shaanxi Coal and Chemical Industry, Yanzhou Coal Mining, and Jinneng Holding Group [11][12]. Global Electricity Demand Growth - The report notes that global electricity demand is expected to grow significantly, with emerging economies maintaining high growth rates and developed economies beginning to recover. By 2024, electricity demand in China is projected to increase by 6.8%, contributing 54% to global demand growth [19][20]. - The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts that global electricity demand will continue to grow at an average annual rate of 3.3% in 2025 and 3.7% in 2026, despite potential slowdowns due to trade tariffs and economic uncertainties [15][19]. Global Electricity Supply Challenges - The report highlights that the supply side has not effectively addressed structural bottlenecks, leading to frequent electricity shortages. Despite significant investments in renewable energy, issues such as aging grid infrastructure and inadequate energy storage systems hinder the effective absorption and utilization of new clean energy sources [10][55]. - The report emphasizes that traditional coal-fired power generation remains a critical stabilizing force in the global electricity system, especially as developed countries like the U.S. are expected to restart coal power generation to meet rising electricity demands [11][56]. Traditional Energy's Role - Coal power is projected to continue playing a vital role in the global energy landscape, with the U.S. expected to see a 6% increase in coal consumption by 2025. This shift indicates a potential adjustment in energy strategies among developed nations [11][56]. - The report also notes that while the share of coal in global energy generation is decreasing, it still represents the largest source of electricity generation globally [11][56].