China's Coal Power Expansion Slows as Renewables Surge

New coal plant permits drop sharply, reflecting a shift towards clean energy amid economic and political pressures.

China permitted only 9GW of new coal power in the first half of 2024, an 83% decrease from the same period in 2023.
Despite a construction boom, coal plants are becoming less economically viable due to the rise of renewable energy.
China's renewable energy capacity grew significantly, contributing to a 7% reduction in coal power generation from June 2023 to June 2024.
Experts suggest that China's energy strategy may be shifting, with clean energy increasingly meeting electricity demand growth.
Political and economic factors, including energy security concerns, continue to influence China's coal power policies.