China is accelerating its shift toward clean energy, with renewable capacity projected to reach over 3,000 GW by 2030—double current levels—reinforcing its key role in global decarbonization, according to a State Grid Energy Research Institute report.
Rapid Expansion in Renewables
In 2024, China added 430-500 GW of new renewable capacity, driven by policy support, grid upgrades, and rising demand. Renewable generation surged 25% YoY to 1.84 trillion kWh, accounting for 18.5% of total power output. Twelve provinces now source over 20% of electricity from renewables, with Qinghai, Gansu, Ningxia, and Inner Mongolia exceeding 40%.
Grid Upgrades Boost Green Power Integration
China has built 42 ultra-high-voltage transmission lines, enhancing cross-regional power flows. Interregional transmission rose 9% in 2024, while interprovincial transfers grew 7.1%. In March 2024, State Grid and China Southern Power Grid completed the first cross-regional green power trade, sending 52.7 million kWh from Guangxi and Yunnan to Shanghai.
Market Reforms Support Growth
The newly enacted Energy Law and a unified national electricity market are accelerating renewable adoption. With annual additions expected to average 300 GW through 2030, renewables will remain the dominant driver of China’s power sector expansion.
Source: China Daily
