China has made significant strides in the development of new energy sources in recent years, demonstrating a robust commitment to addressing climate change and environmental challenges.
The country’s transition toward a clean, low-carbon energy system is evident in the increasing contribution of clean energy sources, which accounted for 25.9 percent of the total energy consumption in the past year. This marks a substantial 8.9 percentage point rise from 2012. Concurrently, the use of coal witnessed a decline from 68.5 percent to 56.2 percent over the same period.
A pivotal moment in this shift occurred in June when the installed capacity of renewable energy surpassed that of coal, reaching an impressive 1.3 billion kilowatts. China now leads the world in the total installed capacities of hydro, wind, solar, and biomass power generation.
Technological advancements and widespread adoption of renewable energy have played a crucial role in significantly reducing the cost of renewables in China. Figures released by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment highlight China’s global dominance in the supply of wind-power and photovoltaic module equipment, accounting for 50 percent and 80 percent, respectively.
The new energy vehicle (NEV) sector in China has experienced remarkable growth, solidifying the nation’s leading position in the global race to electrify cars. Statistics from the Ministry of Public Security reveal that China currently boasts approximately 16 million NEVs, constituting half of the global total. China’s NEV production and sales have maintained the top position globally for eight consecutive years since 2015.
The inception of China’s first NEV development plan in 2008, coupled with consistent support from policymakers at both central and local levels, has played a pivotal role in propelling the sector’s growth. Provinces like Anhui exemplify the success of this policy, fostering the development of NEVs and hosting key players in the industry, such as Chery and Nio.
The positive impact of China’s commitment to new energy extends beyond the realm of energy production. In 2021, the country’s carbon emission intensity, measured as carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP, was an impressive 50.8 percent lower than in 2005. This achievement is a direct result of the robust development of renewable energy sources.
Furthermore, the application of new energy technologies has contributed to a marked improvement in air quality. Over the period from 2013 to last year, the concentration of PM2.5, a significant indicator of air pollution, witnessed a notable reduction of 57 percent, effectively addressing a longstanding environmental concern in China.