German Media: Thanks to China, the Global Climate Battle Has Better Chances of Success

Germany’s “Energy Transition” Website Article from March 12: Original Title: China, a Diverse Pioneer in Climate Protection
For decades, the US and European countries have touted themselves as leaders in global energy transition. However, China has taken the lead through large-scale industrial policies and continuous investment in clean energy technologies. Once one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, China is now a driving force behind renewable energy expansion. This shift is reshaping the economic logic and even the political landscape of global climate action.

During the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, one fact became clear: China is surpassing the US and the EU at an astonishing pace in clean energy technology and industry. China’s new renewable energy (solar and wind) installed capacity is more than double the total of other regions worldwide. As a result, China’s carbon emissions have stabilized in recent years and are expected to begin declining, while global emissions have risen to record highs.

China’s success is not rooted in international summits or moral preaching but in pragmatic national interests, especially its comparative advantage in large-scale renewable energy. Solar and wind have become the cheapest clean energy sources globally, and mass-produced clean energy technologies are competitive everywhere. Ember analyst Yang Muyi (phonetic) stated, “Like many countries, China’s economy faces some challenges, but China has moved away from a fossil fuel-driven development model and is seeking a new development path based on environmental stability.”

According to a report from the Helsinki-based Center for Energy and Clean Air Research, over the past decade, China has reduced carbon emissions both domestically and internationally by exporting clean energy technologies, helping other countries adopt clean energy solutions more quickly. China’s current renewable energy development rate has exceeded several set targets and will surpass the EU, which has long led global climate protection efforts. Jonas Wack of Germany’s Daily Mirror pointed out, “Thanks to China, the fight against climate change is more promising than ever. Today, China has become a core force in the global decarbonization process.”

China’s photovoltaic (PV) module production has increased 14-fold over ten years and now dominates the global market. In 2024, China’s new solar power generation will be four times that of the EU, and wind power six times. By 2030, non-fossil energy sources will account for 25% of total energy consumption, far surpassing the United States, which is moving in the opposite direction.

China still consumes fossil fuels, but demand for gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel stabilized last year. The International Energy Agency (IEA) attributes this phenomenon to “structural shifts” like electrification: about 30% of China’s end-use energy consumption now comes from electricity, far higher than in the US and EU. Currently, about half of China’s car sales are electric vehicles, supported by domestic policies.

Equally important, China’s clean energy technologies are generating substantial profits—dominating markets that Europe once hoped to lead. China accounts for over 80% of global PV module capacity. In the electric vehicle market, China’s advantage is also clear: in 2024, over 70% of global EV production will come from China. China also leads in low-emission hydrogen production technology. Additionally, Chinese companies’ overseas investments in clean energy span many countries and regions, advancing the global energy transition.

Given its scale, China’s progress is particularly encouraging. Belinda Shepe of the Center for Energy and Clean Air Research stated that China’s investments in a renewable-centered future are driven by multiple considerations, with economic factors being crucial: 10% of China’s GDP now comes from clean energy technology, a figure that could soon double. At the same time, energy security and environmental considerations are also vital, not superficial. Clearly, China benefits from extensive research achievements and practical experience. Europe and the US, meanwhile, are losing their leading roles in reshaping the global energy supply landscape. (Author: Paul Hoknos, Translated by: Qiao Heng)