Based on the energy theory and its analysis methods

the changing trends of the 8 energy indices[energy yield ratio(EYR)

energy investment ratio(EIR)

energy used per person(EUPP)

energy dollar ratio(EDR)

energy density(ED)

environment loading ratio(ELR)

energy-based sustainability index(ESI)and population carrying capacity(PCC)]in Shanxi Province from 1980 to 2008 were analyzed

and the numerical values of the eight indices were also predicted for the year 2012.The results were summarized as follows.(1)The EIR

EUPP

ED increased continuously

while the EDR decreased during the past 29 years

indicating that the economic system of Shanxi Province have been highly developed.(2)The EYR and the ESI decreased continuously

while the ELR continued rising during the past 29 years

indicating that the quick development of the economic system in Shanxi were at the expense of substantial resources consumption and environmental damage.(3)The energy indices predicted for Shanxi in 2012 according to the changing trends showed that if Shanxi continues with the same development model

the competitiveness of production will decline and the pressures to the environment will increase

leading to the irreversible degradation or loss of function in the eco-economic system.