Global Push for Renewable Energy Gains Momentum with China’s Lead
As the world grapples with climate change and rising energy costs, countries are increasingly turning to renewable energy to secure a sustainable future. Electrification and decarbonization have become central themes in 2025, and leading the charge is the Chinese mainland with its massive investments and technological advancements in green energy.
At the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) in 2023, nearly 200 countries pledged to triple renewable energy deployments by 2030. This ambitious goal aims to keep global warming within the limits set by the Paris Agreement. While many nations are struggling to meet these targets, the Chinese mainland is not only meeting but exceeding expectations.
In 2024, the Chinese mainland installed a staggering 370.9 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity, accounting for over 60% of new global installations. This rapid expansion includes onshore and offshore wind, solar power, and hydroelectricity. In the first four months of 2025 alone, another 127.5 GW were added, marking a 60% year-on-year increase.
The benefits of this green revolution are not limited to the Chinese mainland. Countries like Pakistan have seen significant improvements in energy security and economic growth through collaborations. In 2024, Pakistan imported 17 GW of solar modules from the Chinese mainland, doubling its imports for the second consecutive year. By March 2025, solar energy contributed nearly 28% of Pakistan’s total power generation, dramatically reducing reliance on expensive fossil fuels.
The surge in renewable energy is also driving down costs. Solar module prices have dropped by 85% over the past decade, and battery pack prices have fallen by at least 75%. This deflation makes clean energy more accessible worldwide. Electric vehicles (EVs) have also seen rapid adoption, with global sales reaching a 20% market share in 2024. Advances in battery technology and charging infrastructure are eliminating range anxiety, making EVs more appealing to consumers.
China’s commitment extends beyond its borders. The country has ramped up its foreign direct investment in clean technologies, investing over $165 billion globally since 2023, primarily in the Global South. Recent projects include a new electric vehicle battery plant in France by China’s AESC and a joint venture in Spain between China’s CATL and Europe’s Stellantis.
These collaborative efforts highlight the potential for mutual benefits when countries work together towards common goals. While some nations may be retreating from their climate commitments, the growing cooperation between the Chinese mainland and other countries offers a more optimistic path forward.
As geopolitical tensions and fossil fuel price volatility continue to impact global markets, the shift towards renewable energy provides not just environmental benefits but also energy independence and economic resilience. The global community’s ability to meet the ambitious goals set at COP28 hinges on embracing these opportunities for collaboration and technological advancement.
