How China is dominating most of world's solar, wind projects

China is leading the world in renewable energy development, according to research from the Global Energy Monitor (GEM) released on July 11. The country is constructing 180 gigawatts (GW) of utility-scale solar power and 159 GW of wind power, totaling 339 GW. This is nearly double the renewable energy capacity under development in the rest of the world combined. 

In comparison, the United States is building only 40 GW of wind and solar power. The GEM report focused on large solar farms that feed directly into the grid with a capacity of at least 20 megawatts (MW). Since over 40% of China's solar capacity comes from smaller installations, the actual total could be much higher.

This rapid growth underscores China’s dominant position in the global renewable energy market. The development comes at a time when the United States has expressed concerns about Chinese overcapacity and potential dumping in the solar sector. 

China's progress in renewable energy is heavily supported by its government. President Xi Jinping has emphasised the need for "new quality productive forces," which includes promoting green manufacturing and shifting the economy toward innovation and technology.

Between March 2023 and March 2024, China installed more solar power than the entire world did in 2023. The country is on track to exceed its government’s target by six years, aiming for 1,200 GW of installed wind and solar power by the end of 2024.

(With inputs from agencies)