China is quietly spearheading a green revolution, reshaping the global renewable energy landscape. According to a The Wall Street Journal report, China aims to have 18 percent of its power consumption come from non-hydro renewable sources by 2025. Impressively, the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts that China will meet its 2030 wind and solar photovoltaic targets as early as 2024, six years ahead of schedule.
China's pivotal role is crucial for the global objective of tripling renewable energy capacity. The nation is set to install more than half of the new global capacity required by 2030, a testament to its commitment and capability. This surge in renewable development has garnered significant praise from the international community.
Decades of dedication have paid off, with China's latest government work report revealing that its installed renewable energy capacity has surpassed thermal power capacity for the first time in history. Additionally, China accounted for over half of all newly installed renewable energy capacity worldwide.
The IEA describes China as the world's renewables powerhouse. In 2023 alone, China's solar power capacity reached a staggering 220 gigawatts—equivalent to the entire global capacity in 2022. Wind power capacity also saw a remarkable 66 percent growth. These achievements highlight China's unwavering confidence in renewable industries and its effective strategies to promote green and low-carbon development.
There are two main drivers behind China's focus on renewable energy. Firstly, as a responsible major nation, China is dedicated to building a global community with a shared future. The transition to green energy is vital for addressing the interests of every nation and individual amidst increasing global challenges like climate change and environmental risks.
On a per-capita basis, China's emissions reached 8.9 tonnes in 2023, higher than the world average of 4.6 tonnes but significantly lower than the United States' 13.3 tonnes. In response to global uncertainties, China is accelerating its renewable industry development, fostering sustainable energy both domestically and internationally.
China's unparalleled advantages in renewable energy are evident. With vast renewable resources, the foundation for its energy transition is solid. For instance, regions with ample solar radiation and sunshine cover 60 percent of China's land area. Installing 2,500 gigawatts of solar power would require only 0.8 percent of this land mass, showcasing the country's immense potential for renewable expansion.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
