China leads the global energy transition and tops the rankings in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, reinforcing its climate commitment through domestic actions and international cooperation.
China positions itself as a global leader in renewable energies, with figures that far exceed those of other countries. According to data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), by the end of 2024, the country had:
- 887 GW of solar photovoltaic energy
- 525 GW of wind energy
- 435 GW of hydroelectric energy
These figures quadruple or quintuple the capacities of the United States, consolidating China as the absolute benchmark in the global energy transition.
National Contributions and Goals for 2035
China commits to reducing emissions and multiplying its renewable capacity six times compared to 2020.
At the United Nations Climate Summit 2025, President Xi Jinping presented China’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) for 2035, which include:
- Reduction of net GHG emissions by 7% to 10% from its historical peak
- Expansion of solar and wind energy to reach 3,600 GW installed
“Let’s preserve planet Earth, the place we call home,” Xi expressed in his speech.
China maintains its goal to peak emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.
Carbon Trading and Climate Policy Tools
The national carbon market reaches record figures and voluntary reduction mechanisms are expanded.
Since 2021, China has operated a national carbon market that in 2025 reached:
- 189 million tons traded
- 18.1 billion yuan in transactions (USD 2.54 billion)
This system helped reduce the carbon intensity of the electricity sector by 10.8% compared to 2018. In addition, a voluntary market for emission reductions was launched, expanding climate policy tools.
China advances with mega solar energy projects. Photo: China.org.
Ecological Restoration and Environmental Quality
Massive reforestation and improvement of urban air quality as pillars of green development.
Between 2012 and 2024, China afforested an area equivalent to more than twice the size of Germany. In 2024:
- 222 cities met air quality standards
- PM2.5 decreased to 29.3 µg/m³
- 87.2% of days had good air quality
International Cooperation and Support for Developing Countries
China promotes clean energy and climate resilience projects in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Since 2016, China mobilized 177 billion yuan to support 42 developing countries, with 54 climate agreements. Notable examples include:
- Garissa Solar Plant (Kenya): supplies 70,000 households
- De Aar Wind Farm (South Africa)
- Hydropower projects in Rwanda
It also provides technical assistance, satellite tools, and capacity development, such as the support given to Tonga after the 2022 volcanic eruption.
Climate Governance and Global Vision
China proposes a united international community in the face of the climate challenge.
“No country can address the climate risk alone,” Xi stated. China promotes the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, urging developed countries to lead emissions reduction and financially support developing nations.
