China is accelerating its green transition with major renewable energy projects while maintaining coal production to meet growing energy demands. The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has announced large-scale offshore wind farms and energy bases in desert regions to help achieve China’s carbon neutrality target by 2060. However, despite rapid renewable energy expansion, China continues increasing coal output, implementing low-carbon technologies in coal-fired plants to mitigate emissions. 

China is at the forefront of global clean energy development, contributing 60% of new renewable capacity worldwide in 2023, according to the World Energy Outlook 2024. Renewables now account for nearly 40% of China’s electricity, and the country’s forest coverage absorbs over 1.2 billion tons of CO₂ annually. Additionally, China has led the electric vehicle (EV) sector for a decade, playing a crucial role in industrial decarbonization efforts. Naing Swe Oo, senior advisory board member at Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies, emphasized that China’s ambitious carbon neutrality goals and industrial sustainability initiatives have positioned it as a leader in the green economy. 

Beyond its borders, China is spearheading renewable projects in developing nations. The China-Ethiopia-Sri Lanka Renewable Energy Technology Transfer Project has benefited over 50,000 people with sustainable energy solutions. Other major projects include the Zhanatas Wind Farm in Kazakhstan, which generates 350 million kWh annually, saving 109,500 tons of coal, and the Gouina Hydropower Station in Mali, producing 687 million kWh yearly while cutting carbon emissions by 630,000 tons. 

China also dominates clean energy exports, supplying 70% of global solar components and 60% of wind power equipment. In 2023, these exports contributed to reducing global carbon emissions by 810 million tons. As a Paris Agreement signatory, China has provided $24.5 billion in climate financing to developing countries since 2016. Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), it has partnered with over 40 nations to expand renewable infrastructure. 

Despite its achievements, China faces challenges in balancing economic growth with ESG commitments. While it continues to invest in renewable energy and carbon neutral strategies, achieving its five-year carbon intensity reduction goal remains uncertain. However, its continued leadership in clean technology and global investments signals a long-term commitment to sustainability. 

Sources: 

https://esgnews.com/china-unveils-major-climate-projects-to-accelerate-green-transition/ 

https://www.carbonbrief.org/daily-brief/china-announces-plans-for-major-renewable-projects-to-tackle-climate-change/ 

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-03-06/China-to-accelerate-green-transition-in-all-socioeconomic-sectors-1Bw5hqFYoI8/p.html 

https://sustainabilityonline.net/news/china-announces-series-of-projects-to-address-climate-change/