China Expands Coal Power as Renewable Growth Struggles to Offset Emissions

Despite leading the world in renewable energy installations, China's increased coal power projects threaten its climate goals.

China initiated coal power projects totaling 94.5 gigawatts in 2024, the highest level since 2015, according to a new report.
New coal power plants with a combined capacity of 30.5 gigawatts became operational in 2024, though slightly less than the 49.8 gigawatts added in 2023.
While China installed 356 gigawatts of solar and wind capacity in 2024, the simultaneous coal expansion undermines efforts to transition to cleaner energy.
Analysts warn that coal projects are often driven by industrial interests rather than actual energy demand, risking long-term reliance on fossil fuels.
China, the world's largest carbon emitter, aims to peak CO2 emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, but ongoing coal reliance poses significant challenges.