China building more wind, solar capacity than rest of world combined: report

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🗞️ Driving the news: China is constructing nearly twice as much wind and solar energy capacity as the rest of the world combined, with 339 gigawatts (GW) under development, including 159 GW of wind and 180 GW of solar

🔭 The context: China, the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, aims to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2060
• Despite its renewable energy surge, the national grid still relies heavily on coal plants during peak demand periods

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: This extensive buildout of renewables positions China to potentially peak its carbon emissions sooner than anticipated, aiding global efforts to combat climate change
• However, the continued reliance on coal underscores ongoing challenges

⏭️ What's next: China's renewable energy capacity is set to surpass coal capacity this year, raising hopes for earlier-than-expected emission peaks
• The country’s move away from coal-based steelmaking also signals a potential "turning point" in its carbon reduction efforts

💬 One quote: "The stark contrast in construction rates illustrates the active nature of China's commitment to building renewables projects," noted the Global Energy Monitor study

📈 One stat: China is currently building 339 GW of wind and solar capacity, nearly twice the rest of the world's combined effort

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