BEIJING: China's four central government departments said on Thursday the country will further boost solar energy use.

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The four departments -- the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and the National Energy Administration -- made the pledge at a meeting in Beijing.

A total of 13 development zones, including the Beijing economic and development zone, will be built into exemplary models in solar energy applications, and China will invest more in construction projects with solar power applications, according to discussions at the meeting.

The central government will subsidize 50 percent of the bidding contract price of key solar power equipment and other costs will be covered by four yuan (60 cents) or six yuan per watt, according to those attending the meeting.