Solar Power Overtakes Nuclear and Wind to Lead EU Energy Mix for the First Time
Key Insights
China is currently constructing 74% of all utility-scale solar and wind projects globally, totaling 510 gigawatts of new capacity.
This rapid expansion positions China as the world leader in renewable energy development, significantly outpacing other nations.
The country's substantial clean energy build-out is crucial for global efforts to combat climate change and decarbonize energy systems.
China's aggressive deployment strategy is driven by energy security, pollution reduction, and a strategic aim to dominate green technologies.
China is currently constructing nearly three-quarters of all utility-scale solar and wind power projects globally, underscoring its unparalleled commitment to renewable energy expansion. Data from the San Francisco-based non-governmental organization Global Energy Monitor (GEM) reveals that China is building 510 gigawatts (GW) of solar and wind capacity, representing approximately 74% of the 689 GW under construction worldwide.
This rapid build-out positions China as the undisputed leader in the global renewable energy sector. To put this scale into perspective, a single gigawatt of capacity can typically supply electricity to about one million homes. China's aggressive deployment strategy is critical for global climate change initiatives, given its substantial role in global manufacturing and its status as the world's largest energy consumer and carbon emitter.
The Global Energy Monitor report highlights that China continues to add solar and wind power at an unprecedented pace, far exceeding the combined efforts of other nations. This expansion is driven by a combination of factors, including national energy security concerns, a desire to reduce air pollution, and a strategic ambition to dominate key green technologies. The sheer volume of projects under construction reflects a robust domestic supply chain and significant government support for renewable energy development.
While China's renewable energy growth is commendable, it operates within a complex energy landscape. The country is also simultaneously investing in new coal-fired power plants, a dual-track approach that aims to ensure energy security while transitioning to cleaner sources. However, the scale of renewable deployment is undeniable, with the 510 GW under construction representing a significant portion of China's total installed power capacity and a substantial contribution to global clean energy targets.
Industry analysts note that China's massive investment in renewables not only addresses its domestic energy demands but also influences global market dynamics, driving down the costs of solar panels and wind turbines through economies of scale. This leadership in deployment and manufacturing is expected to continue shaping the trajectory of the global energy transition, providing both opportunities and challenges for international climate action.