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Binchuan Metals Co has had weekly power blackouts this summer and uses 2,000 liters of diesel every month to fuel its own generators.

"This adds to our costs," said the head of its administrative department, surnamed Tang.

The company, based in Dongguan, Guangdong province, is not alone. In fact, some areas in this manufacturing hub have been experiencing blackouts three days a week, according to the power supply bureau.

"The lack of water and coal, and the peak demand season, have resulted in a tight power supply, which will worsen," said Wang Jifeng, director of the control and communications center of China Southern Power Grid Co.

"The power shortage is the worst in five years," Wang said.