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With the development of new-power generation sources, the difference between maximum and minimum power requirements from a power grid is growing. However, the peaking power installed capacity, such as pumped-hydro energy storage and gas-fired power, is too small to meet the peaking regulation requirements. Chinese coal-based energy resources structure determines coal-fired power plants to be the main source of power. This means that coal-fired power units will need to undertake more peak shaving tasks for a long period of time. In this paper, we provide an overall review of China׳s coal-fired power units׳ peak regulation with a detailed presentation of the installed capacity, peak shaving operation modes and support policies. High energy-consumption problems, environmental pollutants and safety barriers when coal-fired power units run in low-load operation are noted from the power generation perspective. Some policy recommendations are given to solve the peak shaving problem to some extent and to ensure the sustainable development of the power energy system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]