Most large buildings in the parts of China that I've visited (4 different regions of the country) use government supplied central heating (hot water I think).

Most large buildings in the parts of China that I've visited (4 different regions of the country) use government supplied central heating (hot water I think). Interestingly this supply is turned on in the fall based on local policy, which is often driven by economics and politics, So it's not uncommon for people to not get the heat turned on until much later in the year than anyone would really like... :)