China coal plant building surges despite record renewable energy additions - Asia News Network
Published February 05, 2026
China's Coal Plant Construction Rises Amid Record Renewable Energy Growth
China is experiencing a notable increase in coal plant construction, even as the nation sets records for renewable energy additions. This trend raises questions about the future energy landscape in China, particularly regarding the balance between fossil fuels and renewable sources.
According to data from the National Energy Administration (NEA), the country added approximately 87 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity in 2022, marking a significant increase from the previous year. This surge in renewable energy capacity is largely driven by the expansion of solar and wind power installations, which accounted for a substantial portion of the new capacity.
In stark contrast, the construction of coal-fired power plants has also surged. Reports indicate that China has initiated the construction of 106 GW of new coal power projects in 2022 alone. This figure represents a 50% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the ongoing reliance on coal as a primary energy source.
The NEA's figures reveal that as of the end of 2022, China’s total installed renewable energy capacity reached 1,280 GW, with solar and wind power making up a significant share of this total. Solar power capacity alone increased by 60 GW, while wind power capacity grew by 27 GW. These developments reflect China's commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio, which is essential for meeting its carbon neutrality goals by 2060.
Despite these advancements in renewable energy, the coal sector in China remains robust. The country continues to rely heavily on coal to meet its energy demands, particularly in the industrial sector. This reliance is evident in the fact that coal still accounts for approximately 56% of China's total energy consumption as of 2022.
Experts indicate that the increase in coal plant construction is influenced by several factors. One significant reason is the need for energy security and stability, especially in light of rising electricity demand. As China’s economy continues to grow, the demand for energy is expected to rise, leading to an increased reliance on coal power in the short term.
Furthermore, local governments are reportedly pushing for coal plant construction to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. In many regions, coal remains a vital part of the local economy, and the construction of new coal plants is seen as a way to bolster economic activity.
China's energy strategy is multifaceted, and while the government has set ambitious renewable energy targets, the reality of energy supply and demand complicates the transition. The NEA has emphasized the importance of balancing energy security with environmental goals, which has led to a dual approach of investing in both renewable energy and coal power.
The surge in coal plant construction has drawn criticism from environmental advocates and international observers. Many argue that increasing coal capacity undermines China's efforts to combat climate change and could hinder progress towards its long-term carbon neutrality goals. The construction of new coal plants is viewed as contradictory to the global push for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
In response to these concerns, the Chinese government has reiterated its commitment to renewable energy development. In recent years, China has become a global leader in solar panel manufacturing and wind turbine production, exporting these technologies worldwide. The country has also invested heavily in research and development to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions from existing coal plants.
As part of its strategy to transition to a more sustainable energy system, China has implemented various policies aimed at promoting renewable energy. These include subsidies for renewable energy projects, feed-in tariffs, and incentives for energy efficiency improvements. The government has also set specific targets for increasing the share of non-fossil fuels in its energy mix, aiming for 25% by 2030.
Despite these initiatives, the pace of coal plant construction raises questions about the effectiveness of China's energy policies. Critics argue that the simultaneous expansion of coal and renewable energy could create a scenario where the country is locked into fossil fuel dependence for a longer period, complicating efforts to achieve its climate goals.
Looking ahead, the energy landscape in China is likely to evolve as the government continues to navigate the complex interplay between economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability. The ongoing construction of coal plants, combined with record renewable energy additions, reflects the challenges faced by China in balancing these competing priorities.
As the world watches China’s energy transition, the country’s approach will be critical in shaping global energy trends. The outcomes of these policies will not only impact China’s domestic energy landscape but also influence international efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
In conclusion, while China is making significant strides in renewable energy, the simultaneous surge in coal plant construction presents a complex challenge. The coming years will be crucial in determining how effectively China can balance its energy needs with its climate commitments.
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