China's renewable energy sector has achieved remarkable milestones, surpassing its 2030 clean energy targets six years ahead of schedule. In 2024 alone, the country added 277 GW of solar and 80 GW of wind capacity, marking a 45.2% and 18% increase respectively . This rapid expansion has positioned China as a global leader in renewable energy, with solar and wind capacities now exceeding those of coal for the first time.​

Government policies and substantial investments have fueled this growth. In 2024, China attracted $818 billion in clean energy investments, accounting for two-thirds of the global increase in such investments that year . The completion of large-scale projects like the 4-GW Ruoqiang photovoltaic project in the Taklamakan Desert exemplifies China's commitment to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure.

Despite these advancements, coal remains a significant part of China's energy mix. In 2024, the country began construction on 94.5 GW of new coal-fired power capacity, the highest level in nearly a decade . This continued reliance on coal is driven by concerns over energy security and the need to meet peak electricity demand, especially during periods when renewable sources are less reliable.​‍

‍China is also investing heavily in nuclear power as part of its clean energy strategy. With 57 operational nuclear reactors and several more under construction, the country's nuclear capacity reached 59.43 GW in 2024 . The development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), such as the HTR-PM, is expected to play a crucial role in providing stable and efficient power, particularly in industrial applications.​‍

Looking ahead, China aims to peak its carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. Projections indicate that renewables will supply 60% of China's energy needs by 2050, with fossil fuels accounting for the remaining 40% . However, the continued construction of coal-fired power plants poses challenges to these goals, highlighting the complexity of balancing rapid economic growth with environmental sustainability.​

In summary, while China's progress in renewable energy is commendable and sets a global benchmark, the nation's ongoing dependence on coal underscores the need for a more decisive shift towards cleaner energy sources to meet its long-term climate objectives.​