Recent analysis reveals that China’s power sector has initiated construction on almost 100 gigawatts of new coal-fired capacity in the past year, marking the highest level in nearly a decade.
The burgeoning development of coal power projects in China poses significant questions regarding the country’s climate pledges. As the world’s largest emitter of carbon dioxide, China is experiencing a surge in coal plant construction that could jeopardize its ambitious climate objectives.
The study, conducted by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air and the Global Energy Monitor, indicates that China accounted for 93% of all new coal power construction starts globally last year. This immense growth threatens to undermine the nation’s expansive investment in clean energies like solar and wind, which already surpass the efforts of both the United States and Europe.
Despite the impressive escalation in renewable energy adoption, the reliance on coal remains deeply ingrained within China’s energy framework. The report highlights that instead of phasing out coal, the country continues to integrate clean energy alongside existing fossil fuel dependencies.
In 2024 alone, construction commenced on 94.5 gigawatts of new coal power plant capacity, the largest yearly amount since 2015. Additionally, 3.3 gigawatts worth of previously suspended projects have resumed. This indicates a strong reinforcement of coal’s role in China’s energy sector over the next few years.
Challenges arise as the expanded coal capacity potentially displaces newer renewable energy installations. During the final quarter of 2024, fossil fuel electricity generation levels remained elevated while usage of solar and wind energy declined markedly.
The recent surge in construction aligns with a previous increase in governmental approvals for coal plants from 2022 to 2023. Analysts have urged China to reconsider these approvals to prevent excess capacity and to cut carbon emissions, aligning with international climate commitments.
Qi Qin, a prominent analyst, urges China to curb further coal plant constructions that have already been sanctioned, to avoid exacerbating overcapacity and emissions that could impede climate targets.
In terms of emissions, China has pledged to peak carbon emissions by 2030, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2060. Despite some analysts suggesting that China may have already reached peak emissions, the challenge of reducing them remains formidable.
The recent lapse in submitting a national reduction plan by the UN deadline adds further complexity to China’s climate strategy. Nevertheless, Chinese officials assure that their plan will be submitted within this year.
Looking ahead, the report notes a decline in new coal proposals and approvals last year, hinting at a potential deceleration in construction starts. This downturn follows a peak in proposals reaching over 100 gigawatts in the previous two years.
The sharp rise in coal-fired power plant construction in China illustrates a complex landscape where climate goals intersect with energy demands. While the country makes strides in renewable energy, its ongoing reliance on coal presents formidable challenges. Balancing economic growth with environmental responsibilities remains a critical issue for China’s future energy policy.
