Electricity is an indispensable energy source for modern social and economic development. However, large-scale blackouts can cause incalculable loss to society. In 2012, three major Indian power grids collapsed, resulting in the interruption of the electricity supply to over 600 million people. To avoid an event like that, China needs to forecast the power generation and consumption of eight power grids effectively. This paper first analyzes the characteristics of eight power grids and then proposes a combined model based on three improved grey models optimized by a differential evolution algorithm to predict electricity production and consumption of each power grid. The optimized combined forecasting model provides a better prediction than other models, and it is also the most workable and satisfactory model. Experiment results show electricity production and consumption would increase. In consideration of the real situation and existing problems, some suggestions are proposed. The government could decrease thermal power and exploit renewable energy power, like hydroelectric power, wind power and solar power, to ensure the safe and reliable operation of China's major power grids and protect environment. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.