China Shifts Energy Strategy with Major Nuclear Expansion and Reduced Coal Approvals

The country approved a record number of new nuclear reactors while significantly cutting coal power plant permits in the first half of 2024.

China approved 11 new nuclear reactors across five sites, with a total investment of $31 billion.
The 14 new coal plants approved from January to June 2024 represent an 80% decrease from the previous year.
China's nuclear expansion aims to support its carbon reduction targets and address energy demand.
The government is also focusing on retrofitting existing coal plants with low-carbon technologies.
China leads the world in solar and wind installations but continues to rely on coal for peak energy demands.