(Yicai Global) July 13 -- The National Development and Reform Commission held a meeting with five major power producers and other key energy businesses yesterday, Cnstock.com reported, citing a notice on the NDRC's plans to discuss coal collection, consumption, inventory and supply issues as well as thermal power and hydropower.

Coal consumption's busy season came early this year and the price of coal has been rising. Market price exceeded USD88.48 (CNY600) per ton. Coal-producing areas were adversely affected by environmental examinations and strict control over coal plants' outflows, and their yield was lower than expected. Industry players anticipate the price of coal will continue to rise in the short term.

Although the NDRC had previously adjusted the electricity tariff structure, decreasing thermal power companies' burden, they are still under significant pressure.

Aside from calling for the accelerated release of coal capacity and ensuring supply in the busy season, authorities could take regulatory measures based on the pressure on downstream companies, an industry analyst said. While authorities directly intervened last year, they have been more cautious this year. Some analysts think that this round of high prices will probably continue until late July.