Pollution-free energies are expected to be the main fuels used during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, says a newly-released "Scientific Olympics" document.

A Beijing think-tank has placed electricity, solar, wind and geothermal power on its Olympic research agenda to ensure clean air, blue sky and clear water for the Olympic Games.

Scientists are hoping for a breakthrough in the development of an electric vehicle, which is still in the research stage now.

The electric vehicle will be used inside the Olympic Village to transport athletes, says the document. The vehicle is also expected to play a part in public transportation in 2008.

To fulfil the goal, the national scientific governing division launched a five-year project with a planned investment of 880 million yuan (US$106 million).

Planners view solar power as a major alternative to electricity. Such power will fuel up to 90 per cent of the street lamps and the heating of bath water in the Olympic Village during the Games.

Part of the Olympic Action Plan, the document also focuses on topics like venue construction, telecommunications, security and environmental protection.

(China Daily November 1, 2002)