A Model for the World
China's successful deployment of clean energy offers a valuable reference model for the global green transition. Belinda Schaepe, a China policy analyst at the Helsinki-based Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, emphasizes the importance of China's cost-effective clean energy products and its potential to drive economic growth.
A recent analysis by the CREA revealed that clean energy sectors contributed to a quarter of China's GDP growth in 2022, with sales and investments reaching $1.9 trillion. This demonstrates that large-scale clean energy deployment can actually drive economic growth, challenging the outdated narrative that decarbonization hinders GDP.
China's domestic scale-up of clean energy manufacturing has significantly driven down costs, making clean products affordable for all countries. Schaepe suggests that China can collaborate with international partners to promote green financing, especially for emerging economies facing financing constraints.
While government support plays a role, China's clean energy leadership is primarily the result of long-term policy guidance, strategic investment in research and development, and a resilient domestic supply chain. The vast home market and fierce competition among Chinese companies have further accelerated efficiency gains and cost reductions.
As China sets the stage for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), Schaepe expresses optimism for sustained progress in clean energy development. She believes that if China continues its current deployment trends, it could achieve the emissions reductions needed to align with the Paris Agreement's targets by 2035. However, ensuring sustainable growth and setting an ambitious emission reduction target, including a clear trajectory on phasing down coal consumption, remain crucial challenges.
China's clean energy leadership offers valuable lessons for the global green transition. By making clean energy affordable, driving economic growth, and collaborating with international partners, China can play a pivotal role in achieving a sustainable future.
10 Comments
Cerebro
Thrilled to see evidence that economic progress and emissions reductions are achievable simultaneously. Great leadership from China!
ArtemK
Let's not forget China's huge coal capacity—it’s hard to accept that they're truly dedicated to international sustainability.
Rotfront
Impressive progress! China's investment and leadership in renewable energy will benefit the global community immensely.
Karamba
I'll believe China's clean energy leadership when we see genuine transparency about their environmental impact.
Rotfront
We really need China's globally affordable clean tech products to hit our climate targets—this is fantastic progress.
BuggaBoom
China portrays itself as green leader, yet they remain one of the biggest polluters globally. Contradiction much?
Loubianka
This clearly shows the benefits of strategic long-term policy and innovation! Good on you, China!
Katchuka
China's heavy industrial emissions haven't disappeared overnight. Green boasting prematurely?
Noir Black
It’s exciting seeing China lead the green revolution, showing how sustainable practices can boost economic vitality.
KittyKat
Finally, a large-scale proof that green transition supports rather than suppresses growth! Great job, China!