In 2024, China achieved a significant milestone in renewable energy by installing a record 357 gigawatts of wind and solar power. This expansion represents a 45% increase in solar capacity and an 18% rise in wind capacity compared to the previous year. Notably, China surpassed its 2030 target of 1,200 gigawatts of renewable energy six years ahead of schedule.
Despite being the world’s largest emitter of carbon dioxide, primarily due to its reliance on coal for electricity and manufacturing, China’s investment in renewables indicates a commitment to enhancing energy and climate security. The nation remains the leading exporter of renewable energy equipment, including batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and electrolyzers for hydrogen fuel production. This manufacturing capacity has contributed to lowering global costs for renewable energy technologies.
In comparison, the United States added 268 gigawatts of solar and wind power in 2024. However, the U.S. clean energy sector faces challenges due to policies favoring fossil fuel industries, such as executive orders that paused leasing and permitting for wind energy projects and promoted oil and gas drilling.
According to Carbon Brief, China’s carbon dioxide emissions, which have been rising, actually fell slightly when comparing the last 10 months of 2024 with the same period the year before. It’s too early to determine if this marks a significant turning point.
China’s progress in renewable energy highlights its potential leadership role in the global energy transition. The country’s advancements in clean energy are essential for global emission reduction efforts, given its substantial share of worldwide carbon emissions.
