Reviewing the progress of CO2 capture and storage (CCS) technology, the main obstacles and the potentials of greenhouse gas control in China are identified. An important point can be drawn is that the innovative energy systems, besides simple implementation of existing technology, are needed for CO2 control in China. On the basis of integration principle of energy utilization and CO2 separation, several innovative energy systems, including chemical-looping combustion with CO2 capture, a partial gasification with O-2/CO2 cycle, and a polygeneration system with CO2 capture, are introduced. With synergetic integrating CO2 into chemical energy conversion and utilization processes, these systems may make breakthrough in CO2 capture with less or even zero energy penalty. Finally, according to the specific issue of China, a new scenario of Energy Network, which composed of energy source, transportation chain, and terminal user, is recommended for sustainable development in China. (C) 2009 Published by Elsevier Ltd.