China is forging ahead in its quest for a greener future, maintaining exceptionally high utilization rates of wind and solar power throughout 2024. Official data released on Sunday by the National Energy Administration revealed that the utilization rates for these renewable sources remained above 95 percent this year. This achievement underscores China's dedication to achieving both rapid growth and high efficiency in its renewable energy sector.
By the end of 2024, China's installed capacity for wind power soared to 510 million kilowatts, while solar power capacity reached an impressive 840 million kilowatts. In the first seven months of the year, wind and solar power generation combined totaled a staggering 1.05 trillion kilowatt-hours, making up approximately 20 percent of the nation's total electricity generation. This significant contribution highlights the pivotal role renewables play in China's energy landscape.
The exponential growth of China's new energy industry is evident. Since 2013, the country's wind power installed capacity has grown sixfold, and solar power capacity has surged more than 180 times. Such rapid expansion has positioned China as a global leader in renewable energy, with its annual new installations accounting for over 40 percent of the world's total. This monumental progress not only accelerates China's own green transformation but also significantly contributes to global efforts in combating climate change.
At the national energy work conference held on Sunday, Chinese authorities reaffirmed their commitment to environmental sustainability. They pledged to intensify efforts in developing and utilizing wind and solar power to promote the nation's green and low-carbon transformation. “We will deepen international energy cooperation, especially in green energy, and actively participate in global energy governance,” officials emphasized at the meeting.
China’s ongoing dedication to renewable energy development signals a positive trajectory towards a sustainable future, offering valuable lessons and opportunities for global investors, researchers, and environmental enthusiasts alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
