Which Asian country produces the most renewable energy in the world? - VnExpress International
Published November 25, 2025
Which Asian Country Leads in Renewable Energy Production?
As the global demand for renewable energy continues to rise, Asian countries are making significant strides in harnessing sustainable power sources. Among these nations, China stands out as the largest producer of renewable energy in the world. This achievement is underscored by the country's extensive investments in various renewable technologies, including solar, wind, hydro, and biomass energy.
According to data from the National Energy Administration (NEA) of China, the country generated approximately 2,610 terawatt-hours (TWh) of renewable energy in 2021, which accounted for over 40% of the world's total renewable energy generation. This remarkable output highlights China's commitment to transitioning to a low-carbon economy and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
Solar Energy Dominance
China's leadership in renewable energy is particularly evident in the solar sector. The country is home to the world's largest solar power capacity, with over 300 gigawatts (GW) installed as of 2021. This figure represents more than a third of the global total. Major Chinese companies, such as Longi Green Energy, Trina Solar, and JinkoSolar, are key players in the solar manufacturing industry, producing high-efficiency solar panels that are exported worldwide.
In addition to manufacturing, China has implemented policies to promote solar energy adoption domestically. The government has set ambitious targets for solar capacity, aiming to reach 1,200 GW by 2030. This goal is part of China's broader strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, which includes a significant increase in renewable energy sources.
Wind Energy Expansion
China is also a leader in wind energy production, boasting the largest installed wind power capacity globally. As of 2021, the country had approximately 290 GW of installed wind capacity, which represents around 40% of the world's total. The rapid expansion of wind farms across China is driven by both onshore and offshore projects, with significant investments in technology and infrastructure.
The Chinese government has set a target to increase wind power capacity to 1,200 GW by 2030, further solidifying its position in the renewable energy sector. The country has invested heavily in offshore wind farms, with plans to develop several large-scale projects along its eastern coastline, taking advantage of the favorable wind conditions in these areas.
Hydropower Contributions
Hydropower remains a cornerstone of China's renewable energy strategy. The country has the largest hydropower capacity in the world, with over 1,000 GW of installed capacity as of 2021. The Three Gorges Dam, located on the Yangtze River, is the largest hydroelectric power station globally and plays a crucial role in China's energy landscape.
Hydropower accounted for approximately 17% of China's total electricity generation in 2021, illustrating its importance in meeting the country's energy needs. The Chinese government continues to invest in hydropower projects, particularly in remote and mountainous regions, to enhance energy access and support sustainable development.
Biomass and Other Renewable Sources
In addition to solar, wind, and hydropower, China is also focusing on biomass energy as part of its renewable energy portfolio. Biomass energy production is primarily derived from agricultural waste, forestry residues, and organic waste. The Chinese government has set a target to increase biomass energy capacity to 30 GW by 2025, recognizing its potential to contribute to energy security and rural development.
China's commitment to renewable energy is further supported by its participation in international agreements and collaborations. The country has actively engaged in global initiatives aimed at combating climate change and promoting sustainable development. This includes participation in the Paris Agreement and commitments to reduce carbon emissions and increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix.
Other Notable Asian Countries in Renewable Energy
While China leads in renewable energy production, several other Asian countries are also making significant contributions to the sector. India, for example, has emerged as a major player in renewable energy, with a total installed capacity of over 100 GW as of 2021. The Indian government has set an ambitious target of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, focusing on solar and wind energy development.
Japan is another notable country in the renewable energy landscape, particularly in solar energy. Following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, Japan has ramped up its efforts to promote renewable energy, resulting in an installed solar capacity of approximately 70 GW by 2021. The government aims to increase this capacity further as part of its energy transition strategy.
South Korea is also investing heavily in renewable energy, with plans to increase its renewable energy share to 20% by 2030. The country is focusing on solar and wind energy, along with hydrogen production, to achieve its goals. In 2021, South Korea's installed renewable energy capacity reached around 25 GW, with a significant portion coming from solar power.
Conclusion
In summary, China is the leading producer of renewable energy in the world, with substantial contributions from solar, wind, hydropower, and biomass sources. The country's ambitious targets and ongoing investments in renewable technologies underscore its commitment to transitioning to a sustainable energy future. Other Asian nations, such as India, Japan, and South Korea, are also making significant strides in renewable energy production, contributing to the region's overall growth in this critical sector.
As the global community continues to prioritize renewable energy to combat climate change, the advancements and initiatives taken by these Asian countries will play a vital role in shaping the future of energy production worldwide.