This year, China made significant progress in the new energy sector. The installed capacity of photovoltaic power generation surpassed 100 million kilowatts, while the first successful test of combustible ice in the sea area added a new mineral to the list. In Qinghai’s Gonghe Basin, a high-temperature dry rock mass was drilled at 236 degrees Celsius, 3,705 meters deep. These achievements highlight the growing momentum in China's renewable energy landscape. But what are the real opportunities and challenges behind these milestones? A reporter recently spoke with experts to uncover more.
The energy structure is shifting from coal to a more diversified system. New energy is lighting up new hopes for the future. China's energy development is moving away from traditional sources toward clean, low-carbon alternatives. This transformation is accelerating, painting a clearer picture of a greener and more sustainable China.
The scale of new energy continues to grow rapidly. By the end of November, wind power capacity reached 160 million kilowatts, solar power hit 126 million kilowatts, and biomass power stood at 15 billion kilowatts. These figures show year-on-year growth rates of 11.8%, 67.1%, and 23.6% respectively. According to the International Energy Agency, global solar PV production increased by 50% in 2016, with China contributing over half of that growth. By the end of 2017, China's renewable energy grid-connected capacity is expected to reach 656 million kilowatts, doubling since 2012.
The energy structure is also being optimized. New energy projects are moving from resource-rich areas to regions with higher demand. For example, photovoltaic installations in the northwest have dropped by 17 percentage points, while East and Central China saw increases of 9 and 6 percentage points respectively. Distributed power generation, which reduces transmission costs and land use, has seen a 3.7-fold increase in the first 11 months of the year.
Efficiency is improving as well. Issues like wind and solar curtailment have been reduced significantly. Wind curtailment rates dropped by 6.7 percentage points, and solar curtailment by 3.8 percentage points. In key regions like Xinjiang and Gansu, wind curtailment fell by 12.1 and 10.5 percentage points respectively. Technological improvements have also boosted efficiency—China’s PV efficiency now reaches 16-18%, with some reaching 20%.
Despite these gains, new energy still faces challenges. Cost remains a major barrier. When new energy makes up 10% of total generation, energy costs could rise by 20%. Transmission fees and administrative barriers also hinder development. Subsidy delays create financial strain on companies, leading to what some call a “triangular debt†situation.
To move forward, the focus must shift from installed capacity to actual power generation. Technological innovation and policy improvements are key. Projects like geothermal heating aim to expand clean energy use. The National Energy Administration plans to improve renewable energy prioritization and promote cross-regional transmission.
In the coming years, distributed power generation will become more market-oriented, allowing local electricity sales and reducing reliance on centralized grids. As Li Chuangjun said, the future lies in focusing on kilowatt-hours rather than just kilowatts. Green development is not just a trend—it’s a necessity.
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