China is poised to witness a historic shift in its energy landscape as wind and solar power generation capacity is anticipated to surpass that of coal by the end of 2024. This follows a significant rise, with the share of wind and solar power reaching 40 percent of China’s total installed power generation capacity, up from 36 percent in 2023.
Non-Fossil Energy Dominance in China’s Power Landscape
In 2023, the total installed capacity of power from non-fossil fuel sources had already exceeded 50 percent of the total generation capacity in the world’s second-largest economy. Non-fossil energy, including nuclear and hydropower, already constitutes over half of China’s power generating capacity.
Projected Growth in Wind and Solar Power Generation Capacity
The China Electricity Council (CEC) projects that the country’s grid-connected wind and solar power generation capacity could exceed 1,300 gigawatts (GW) by the end of 2024. This includes approximately 530GW from wind and 780GW from solar, contributing to the targeted 40 percent share in China’s total installed power generation capacity.
Towards Carbon Neutrality: China’s Green Energy Vision
China’s commitment to sourcing 80 percent of its energy needs from non-fossil fuel sources by 2060, aligning with carbon neutrality goals, remains on track. The CEC forecasts a decline in the share of coal-fired power to 37 percent of the total installed capacity by the end of 2024, down from 39.9 percent in 2023.
While China leads in renewable energy capacity, the report emphasizes the need to enhance resilience to natural disasters and supply shocks, advocating for market-based power tariff systems. The call to accelerate energy storage technology development underscores China’s dedication to constructing a new-type power system dominated by renewable energy.
As China exceeds its goal of installing 1,200GW of solar and wind capacity ahead of schedule, the nation continues its pivotal role in shaping the global transition towards sustainable and green energy alternatives.
Source：scmp.com
