China Expands Coal Power as Renewable Growth Struggles to Offset Emissions
Despite leading the world in renewable energy installations, China's increased coal power projects threaten its climate goals.
Overview
- China initiated coal power projects totaling 94.5 gigawatts in 2024, the highest level since 2015, according to a new report.
- New coal power plants with a combined capacity of 30.5 gigawatts became operational in 2024, though slightly less than the 49.8 gigawatts added in 2023.
- While China installed 356 gigawatts of solar and wind capacity in 2024, the simultaneous coal expansion undermines efforts to transition to cleaner energy.
- Analysts warn that coal projects are often driven by industrial interests rather than actual energy demand, risking long-term reliance on fossil fuels.
- China, the world's largest carbon emitter, aims to peak CO2 emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, but ongoing coal reliance poses significant challenges.