China's renewable energy surge could signal peak in emissions

China’s massive expansion of renewable energy in 2024, equivalent to the UK’s entire electricity output, might indicate that the country’s greenhouse gas emissions have peaked.

Fiona Harvey reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• China’s renewable energy growth in the first half of 2024 matches the UK’s total electricity output from 2023.
• Coal and gas electricity generation in China fell by 5% in July, suggesting a potential peak in emissions.
• Despite gains in clean energy, coal still accounted for 60% of China’s power in 2023, complicating long-term emissions reductions.

Key quote:

"China is leading against all of its competitors, when it comes to green technology."

— Li Shuo, director of the China Climate Hub at the Asia Policy Institute

Why this matters:

China is the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, and its progress in renewable energy could be crucial in global efforts to combat climate change. However, continued coal reliance poses a significant challenge to reducing emissions.

Related EHN coverage:

• Op-ed: In the race for clean energy, the US is both a leader and a laggard — here’s how
• LISTEN: Azmal Hossan on US, China climate collaboration
• China leads global wind and solar project construction