Chinese Dual Approach To Energy

• Video: China continues push for renewable energy, but coal consumption set to rise
• Updates 0

Significant Growth in Renewable Energy

China has made substantial progress in expanding its renewable energy capacity. In 2024, the country added approximately 356 gigawatts (GW) of wind and solar power, nearly matching the total renewable capacity of the United States and significantly surpassing that of the European Union. This expansion underscores China's commitment to enhancing its clean energy infrastructure.

Continued Investment in Coal-Fired Power Plants

Despite advancements in renewable energy, China continues to invest heavily in coal-fired power plants. In 2024, the country approved 66.7 GW of new coal-fired capacity and initiated the construction of 94.5 GW. This trend raises concerns about China's ability to meet its carbon reduction targets, given that coal remains a major source of carbon emissions.

Challenges in Integrating Renewable Energy

The simultaneous expansion of coal power presents challenges for integrating renewable energy into China's power grid. Existing power purchase agreements that favor coal have led to curtailments in solar and wind energy usage, hindering the full utilization of renewable resources. Addressing these structural issues is crucial for China to align its energy practices with its environmental goals.

International Perspectives and Environmental Commitments

The international community has expressed apprehension regarding China's ongoing investment in coal power. The European Union, for instance, has urged China to cease the construction of new coal-fired power plants, highlighting the contradiction between such developments and global climate objectives. Nonetheless, China has announced plans for major renewable projects, including offshore wind farms and new energy bases in desert areas, as part of its efforts to combat climate change.

Conclusion

China's parallel advancement of renewable energy and expansion of coal-fired power plants presents a complex scenario. While the country leads globally in renewable energy capacity, its continued reliance on coal poses significant challenges to achieving its long-term environmental commitments. Balancing immediate energy demands with sustainable practices remains a critical issue for China's energy policy.

• The Guardian China's coal power habit undercuts 'unprecedented pace' of clean energy
• The Guardian EU ambassador to China urges Beijing to stop building coal-fired power plants
• Reuters China announces plans for major renewable projects to tackle climate change

Updates :-

No updates yet!

Related Headlines