With over 2 billion sqm constructed annually, China’s building boom continues. This sector accounts for 40% of energy consumption,which is set to increase further in coming decades. China’s Ministry of Construction has ordered new buildings to be 50% more efficient by 2010 than in 2005, with stricter zoning laws for government buildings and energy intensive buildings. Estimates on initial costs of ‘green’ building vary from 2-5% above the original, but are now being offset by energy savings within as soon as 2 years