Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
China’s Clean Energy Production Soars in Q1 2025
China experienced a significant surge in clean electricity generation during the first quarter of 2025, reaching 951 terawatt hours (TWh). This represents a substantial 19% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to data from the energy research firm Ember. This growth in renewable energy positions China as a leader in the global transition to cleaner power sources.
Record-Breaking Performance
- Expansion: The expansion in clean electricity outstripped growth observed in other major markets, including Europe and the United States.
- Share: Renewable sources now constitute a record 39% of China’s total electricity generation mix.
Wind and Solar Lead the Charge
Wind power emerged as the primary source of clean energy, contributing 307 TWh, which accounts for 13% of China’s overall electricity production.
Surge in Solar Power
Solar power also demonstrated remarkable growth, with a 48% increase in output to 254 TWh. This represents a record 10% of the nation’s total electricity generation. By the end of 2024, China’s utility-scale solar capacity exceeded 880GW, surpassing all other countries.
- New capacity additions allowed solar and wind to generate more electricity than hydropower dams during the January-March period.
Contributions from Hydro and Nuclear
Other sources of clean energy also saw gains:
- Hydroelectric Power: Increased by 7% to reach 226 TWh.
- Nuclear Energy: Rose by 13% to 117 TWh.
Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels
The advancements in clean energy production have facilitated a reduction in China’s dependence on fossil fuels. Output from coal-fired power plants decreased by 4% to 1,421 TWh, while gas-fired plant output also saw a 4% decrease, settling at 67 TWh.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
Global Comparison
- China’s 19% increase in clean electricity far outstrips the 6% growth seen in the US.
- Europe experienced a 5% decrease in clean power output, highlighting China’s strong performance in the sector.
Future Growth Projections
China’s lead in clean energy is anticipated to increase, especially with the expected upswing in solar power generation during the peak months of July and August.
Large-Scale Projects
With over 720GW of solar projects in the pipeline, including the ambitious 100GW Great Solar Wall project under development in Inner Mongolia and neighboring regions, China is solidifying its dominance in renewable energy. The Great Solar Wall is slated for completion by 2030.
Continued Coal Plant Construction
Despite its focus on clean energy, China intends to continue constructing coal-fired power plants through 2027 as part of government upgrade initiatives.