China’s renewable energy advancements have positioned the nation as a global powerhouse in clean technology. This article explores the significant progress of China’s green energy sector, driven by ambitious policies and substantial investment, solidifying its claim as a nation that China leads the world in renewable energy development. We delve into the synergies and collaborative opportunities between China and the UK, two nations committed to a sustainable future.

China’s rapid ascent in the clean technology sector is transforming the global energy landscape. Guided by its “dual carbon” goals, the nation has achieved remarkable progress in its green and low-carbon transformation. Robust policies have fueled the exponential growth of China’s green energy sector, encompassing wind, solar, and hydropower. Notably, China’s large-scale investments and formidable industrial capacity have been instrumental in driving down the costs of renewable energy technologies, making them more accessible on a global scale. This leadership position firmly establishes that China leads the world in renewable energy manufacturing and deployment.

The UK, with its own significant strides in green energy development, particularly its leadership in offshore wind technology, green finance, and robust policy frameworks, finds a natural partner in China. The complementary strengths of British innovation and Chinese large-scale manufacturing, supply chain efficiency, and infrastructure development present significant opportunities for collaboration. By leveraging these synergies, China and the UK can accelerate the transition to clean energy, reduce costs, and enhance the efficiency of the UK’s renewable energy expansion.

1. Key Policies and Measures Driving China’s Renewable Energy Leadership

China’s commitment to green energy is underscored by a series of impactful policies aimed at a comprehensive green transformation. The “Opinions on Accelerating the Comprehensive Green Transformation of Economic and Social Development” (2024) prioritises emissions reduction across crucial sectors. The “2025 Action Guide” further emphasises carbon peaking and neutrality, expanding subsidies for the adoption of new energy vehicles and supporting the greening of various industries.

The “2024–2025 Action Plan for Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction” targets energy-intensive sectors, promoting energy-saving technologies and phasing out outdated production. The Chinese government actively fosters green technology companies and collaborative innovation through initiatives like the Kubuqi Desert Photovoltaic Base and advancements in energy storage. These policies demonstrate China’s substantial and ongoing support for renewable energy technologies, energy storage, and sustainable infrastructure, laying a strong foundation for its global leadership.

2. Market Data Underscores China’s Dominance in Clean Energy

In 2024, clean-energy investment in China reached a staggering 6.8 trillion yuan ($940 billion), showcasing a 7% annual growth and nearly matching global fossil fuel investment. The “new three” sectors—electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, and solar—dominated this investment, highlighting China’s strength in these key renewable energy technologies.

The overall contribution of clean-energy sectors to China’s GDP reached 13.6 trillion yuan ($1.9 trillion), exceeding 10% of the total and growing three times faster than the overall economy. This data firmly reinforces the fact that China leads the world in renewable energy economic impact and growth.

2.1 Low-Carbon Technology Market Development in China

China’s low-carbon technology market, encompassing renewable energy, energy storage, and carbon capture, saw a total output value exceeding 11 trillion yuan in 2024, with over 2 million related enterprises. Lithium batteries and photovoltaic products exhibit particularly strong competitive advantages, further demonstrating China’s leadership in renewable energy manufacturing.

Significant progress includes substantial year-on-year increases in solar (45.2%) and wind (18.0%) power capacity. Improvements in grid flexibility and energy storage are enhancing the integration of these renewable energy sources. The rise of EVs and smart travel technologies further solidifies China’s transition towards a greener economy.

2.2 Renewable Energy Growth and Future Goals in China

China’s ambitious goals include cultivating 3–5 leading energy storage enterprises by 2027, each exceeding 100 billion yuan in output. In 2024, new energy storage capacity saw a remarkable 130% year-on-year increase. The government aims for an annual 200-million-kilowatt grid connection for renewable energy from 2025 to 2027, maintaining a high utilisation rate.

While renewable energy is growing rapidly, fossil fuels still dominate China’s power structure. However, the commitment to further accelerate the development of clean electricity signifies a clear trajectory towards a more sustainable energy mix, reinforcing China’s commitment to being a world leader in this transition.

3. Expert Insights and the UK’s Green Energy Targets: Opportunities for China

Dr Chong Ng from the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult highlights the UK’s crucial role as a major green energy market, particularly in offshore wind. The UK’s ambitious targets for offshore wind capacity by 2030, coupled with the urgent need for energy storage and grid modernisation, present a significant opportunity for international players, including Chinese companies. This underscores the potential for China’s renewable energy expertise to contribute to the UK’s green transition.

4. Potential Collaboration Opportunities Between the UK and China in Green Energy

China’s advancements in green technology have significantly reduced the cost of renewable energy globally. Its active participation in climate initiatives, including discussions with the UK on forming a climate alliance, highlights its strategic role in the international energy transition.

4.1 Recent Collaborations Between UK and China in Renewable Energy

Recent years have seen increased collaboration between the UK and China in green and clean technology. Chinese companies like Mingyang Smart Energy are exploring manufacturing opportunities in Scotland to supply critical components for UK offshore wind projects. The China-UK Clean Energy Cooperation Forum in 2024 expanded discussions to include offshore wind, green hydrogen, energy storage, and smart grids, leading to key agreements. Government-level discussions have further supported upcoming initiatives in these areas. The establishment of the China-UK Green Finance Center facilitates investments in renewable energy projects.

4.2 Further Potential Collaborations: Leveraging China’s Renewable Energy Leadership

Collaboration between Chinese and British companies is vital for the UK to meet its ambitious clean energy goals, particularly in offshore wind and energy storage. China’s leadership in renewable energy technology and manufacturing can provide crucial support to bridge the gap between the UK’s targets and current capacity. The shared goal of achieving net-zero emissions and transitioning to clean energy makes China-UK cooperation essential for accelerating global progress in green energy.

For UK companies looking to collaborate or enter the Chinese market, thorough market research, regulatory compliance, and strong local partnerships are crucial. However, the potential benefits of leveraging China’s renewable energy prowess are significant.

Conclusion: A Collaborative Path to a Greener Future

The collaboration between China and the UK in the green energy sector presents a powerful opportunity to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy globally. By combining China’s manufacturing might in renewable energy with the UK’s innovation and policy expertise, both nations can create powerful synergies, drive innovation, reduce costs, and achieve their ambitious climate goals. Recognising that China leads the world in renewable energy deployment and manufacturing is key to unlocking these collaborative opportunities.