In a matter of a few years, China has become the world’s leading producer and exporter of renewable energy. And while until a few years ago coal was its main source of energy, the country has achieved something that was unthinkable until a few years ago: renewable energy capacity in terms of generation has surpassed that of coal.
By 2023, coal accounted for almost two-thirds of China’s electricity supply. Factors such as rising energy demand and low flexibility of electricity supply have been key to the country becoming the most dependent on fossil fuels, and therefore, a global pollution pit for the planet.
China is increasingly investing in renewable energy
However, for a few years now China has been putting all its eggs in one basket when it comes to renewable energy. In fact, it is the largest producer of solar energy in the world with a total installed capacity exceeding 660 GWwhile in wind power they already have more than 365 GW.
This investment has accelerated the overtaking. And according to data from the China Energy Trade Association, Renewables surpassed fossil fuels in generation capacity during the first half of 2024.
By the end of the year, 40% of total power capacity in China is expected to come from renewablesa mix of wind and solar. In addition, China expects coal to fall below 37% by the end of the year.
The challenge is not easy, because it means that China to add 300 GW of renewable energy to grid this year. Although it is not impossible, since last year alone a total of 293 GW were added to the grid. With this sum, the country would reach a total installed renewable capacity of more than 1,350 GW, surpassing this year the challenge that the country had set for 2030.
Among other energy sources, nuclear and hydroelectric power have also gained momentum in China. According to the agency’s report, Both would represent around 1,900 GW of total installed capacity. which would be added to renewables by the end of 2024. This mix accounted for 53.9% of energy in China in 2023. By this year, nuclear and hydroelectric power are expected to account for 57.5% of the country’s total energy.
This big bet on clean energy must be accompanied by strict control of coal. In 2023, The country approved an additional 25 GW of coal-fired power plant capacity to meet energy demand, something that remains a problem in the country.
Nonetheless, China’s dependence on fossil fuels is rapidly declining thanks to the country’s big bet on renewable energy. Xi Jinping’s government is expected to begin reducing coal use even further by 2026, with a goal of becoming neutral by 2060.
Cover image | Antonio Garcia
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