China Adds 277 GW Of New Solar Capacities In CY24

China Adds 277 GW Of New Solar Capacities In CY24

Notwithstanding the global trade challenges of the Chinese solar industry, the country has now created new records in its green energy landscape. As per the latest data furnished by the National Energy Administration (NEA), China’s solar energy capacity has touched 886.67 GW.

China’s solar capacity 

This is far ahead of other nearby countries in Asia which have emerged as new hotspots for solar energy. For example, compared to China’s 886.67 GW of solar energy capacity, India has a total solar energy capacity of only 97 GW.

China’s current solar energy capacity shows incremental growth in its annual solar capacity. This is against its existing solar energy capacity of 609.49 GW in 2023. Thus in the calendar year 2024, the country added 277.18 of solar energy capacity alone, indicating at its large-scale deployment of solar projects in the year, making it a leader in cumulative solar energy capacity.

Wind Energy Expansion

Meanwhile, the country is also not behind in harnessing its wind energy. China, which is known for hosting some of the largest wind turbine makers has now a total of 520 GW of total wind energy capacity, making the best use of its geographical location.  Overall, the country witnessed a rise of 18% in its annual wind capacity and around 45% rise in its annual solar energy capacity additions.

The country is known globally for its one of the largest solar module, solar cell and wind turbine manufacturers. However, the country is now facing tariffs barriers in several parts of the world. The oversupply and global tariff barriers have now created new roadblocks for its manufacturing houses.

China has set ambitious renewable energy targets for 2030 as part of its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to clean energy. China aims to install at least 1,200 GW (1.2 TW) of total wind and solar power capacity by 2030. By 2030, non-fossil energy sources (including hydro, nuclear, wind, and solar) are expected to account for around 25% of total energy consumption.