China's energy sector achieved a historic milestone as total primary energy production surged to 5.13 billion tonnes of standard coal equivalent in 2025, according to data released by the National Energy Administration on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. This marks the first time the country has surpassed the 5-billion-tonne threshold, signaling robust growth in its energy infrastructure.
Clean Energy Dominates Growth
Non-fossil fuel sources accounted for 112.1% of new electricity generation capacity last year, completely offsetting thermal power's decline while meeting rising national demand. Wind, solar, and hydropower installations drove this transformation, with thermal power generation dropping 0.7% year-on-year to 6.3 trillion kWh – its first decrease in a decade.
Strategic Shift Accelerates
The administration's report highlights how renewable energy investments since 2020 have fundamentally reshaped China's power grid. Business analysts note this structural change positions China to meet its dual carbon goals while maintaining energy security, creating new opportunities in green technology sectors across Asia.
