context: Having already achieved its 2030 targets for renewable energy capacity, the PRC’s next priority in building a new energy system is shiftong to enhancing system quality and stability, with the growth rate of renewable energy installations expected to moderate.
The Energy Law, consolidates existing regulations such as the Electricity Law and Renewable Energy Law into a comprehensive framework, accelerating the legislative progress needed for sustainable energy reform, explains Wang Peng 王鹏 North China Electric Power University professor.
The PRC has already made significant strides in green energy, with renewable energy capacity—wind and solar power—reaching 1200 GW by mid-2024, surpassing initial 2030 goals. However, there remains pressure to maintain momentum toward the ambitious 2060 carbon neutrality target, says Wang.
The Energy Law supports green transformation in three key ways
- sets explicit goals for carbon emissions and renewable energy use, making power suppliers and consumers accountable for renewable energy consumption
- provides specific guidelines for developing various renewable sources, like wind and solar, encouraging distributed energy models and nearby usage
- strengthens mechanisms for green energy consumption, advocating for innovative systems like green certificates and improving the grid’s renewable capacity
The law emphasises energy security—a critical factor for economic stability, says Wang. It mandates improvements in energy supply stability, with a focus on developing robust energy reserves and emergency systems. In particular, the law requires
- comprehensive, science-based energy planning, balancing supply and demand over time
- secure coal, oil and gas development to support energy supply
- enhanced emergency response capabilities, including government and corporate reserves to manage supply fluctuations or crises
The Energy Law mandates energy market reforms, promotes technological innovation and strengthens regulatory oversight, notes Wang. It supports market-driven energy prices and emphasizes research, innovation and industry cooperation to advance energy technology.
With the Energy Law in place, the PRC is set to enhance its green energy and security frameworks, targeting a 25 percent non-fossil fuel energy consumption rate by 2030, signaling a transformative step toward sustainable development.