Why China is Still Building New Coal

Year Published

2026

Contributing Organizations

Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)

Type of Resource

Research/Insights Report

Tool

Languages

English

Relevant Topics

Core Topic

Sectors & Pathways

Topic 2

Climate Policies & Frameworks

Topic 3

Climate & Transition Finance

Target Audience

Financial Services Providers

Governments & Policymakers

Banks

Education Providers / Think Tanks / NGOs

Advisors & Consultants

Relevant Geography

Asia & the Pacific

Central Asia

Resource Description

Examining China’s simultaneous expansion of managed coal capacity and large-scale buildout of wind and solar power, it assesses whether continued construction affects credibility of long term climate commitments through a system level outlook to 2060

Why This Matters

The resource provides a detailed system level assessment of how China’s power sector may evolve, helping readers understand the interaction between managed coal decline, rapid renewable growth, and rising demand through 2060.

Key Insights

Shows managed capacity peaking by 2030 and steadily declining thereafter, supported by carbon capture retrofits
Projects electricity demand to double over the same period, with wind and solar supplying more than two thirds of generation
Describes the role of battery storage, pumped hydro, nuclear, and hydropower in supporting system reliability
Explains how coal, renewables, and emerging technologies interact in a more resilient and decarbonized power system

Secondary File Resources

Secondary Resource Link(s)

Download Report Link

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