SHIJIAZHUANG - China's benchmark power coal price remained flat during the past week.

The Bohai-Rim Steam-Coal Price Index (BSPI), a gauge of coal prices in north China's major ports, stood at 560 yuan ($79.58) per ton Wednesday, according to Qinhuangdao Ocean Shipping Coal Trading Market Co Ltd.

Analysts said that the complementary role of imported coal was likely to be significantly weakened as the amount of imported coal was approaching its maximum limit. In addition, in the main coal-producing areas, prices of some coal varieties increased remarkably, supporting coal prices at ports.

Due to a wave of national cold weather that spurred heating demand, the daily consumption of downstream power plants has increased. Affected by the above factors, coastal coal demand may increase, according to analysts.