China appears to be achieving the first turnaround in CO₂ emissions from electricity generation next year. According to a report, the People’s Republic will be able to generate almost twice as much renewable energy as this year. This means that the country’s CO2 emissions are likely to fall again for the first time – even despite new coal-fired power stations.
In debates about averting climate change, the Chinese argument is usually used: as long as nothing improves in the country with the largest share of CO₂ emissions, austerity measures elsewhere will only be moderately effective, according to the worn-out argument. Even if emissions actually rise this year, the curve will likely move downward again next year.
“For the first time, the pace of low-carbon energy development is sufficient to not only meet but even exceed the average annual increase in China’s electricity demand,” explains Lauri Myllyvirta, senior analyst at the Finnish Center for Research to Energy and Clean Air, out. (CREA).
The tip of the iceberg was soon reached
The reason for this is the record growth of alternative energy sources. As the official figures show, emissions in the third quarter are estimated to increase by 4.7 percent compared to the previous year due to the ‘zero Covid policy’, after which there is likely to be a structural decline in Co2 emissions will take place.
In addition to the massively supported wind and solar industries, other factors also play an important role. China is currently experiencing a manufacturing boom – so strong that it could offset declining demand for steel and cement – two materials whose production produces a lot of CO₂.
Slowed economy, sustainable investments
Moreover, China’s economic recovery from the corona pandemic remains moderate. So far, the country has not undertaken major infrastructure expansions due to economic shocks. At the same time, however, investments in the use of alternative energy have increased, for example through the promotion of electric vehicles and batteries.
Overall, all these factors are “almost a guarantee” of a decrease in CO₂ emissions, Myllyvirta explains.
Coal plans still delay climate goals
However, the Chinese trend reversal has not yet been completely successful. It is still important to promote renewable energy sources; this could herald a longer phase of structural decline. To achieve this goal, China must immediately stop approving new coal-fired power projects, the country added.
According to a report from Global Energy Monitor, the country has approved at least 52 gigawatts of new coal-fired power plants in the first half of 2023 – that’s roughly equivalent to approving two plants per week.
China has big goals for itself
China is the largest CO₂ emitter in the world. To combat climate change, the People’s Republic has set itself the goal of being climate neutral by 2060. This should be achieved by expanding renewable energy sources (China is already the largest producer of solar and wind energy in the world. By 2030, the share of renewable energies in the electricity mix is expected to increase to 25 percent), but also by reducing of energy production. consumption.
In addition, better energy efficiency is specifically promoted: for example by subsidizing more energy-efficient appliances or through strict energy saving rules.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
