Between May 2024 and April 2025, electricity consumption in the People's Republic of China was notably dominated by fossil fuels, accounting for just over half of the total electricity generated. Coal alone constituted a substantial majority within this category, making up almost 56% of the electricity consumed. Meanwhile, clean, low-carbon sources contributed nearly 41% to the country's electricity mix. Hydropower led the low-carbon segment, providing approximately 14% of the electricity, followed closely by wind power at nearly 11%, and solar contributing a important 9% share. Nuclear energy added a complementary 5% to these clean efforts, demonstrating the nation's investment in diverse low-carbon technologies. Emerging sources like biofuels, although categorized as low-carbon, represented a modest portion of the mix.
Is Electricity Growing in People's Republic of China?
China's electricity consumption per capita in 2025 was recorded at 6798 kWh, which signifies a notable decrease compared to the record-high of 7076 kWh/person set in 2024. This decline of 278 kWh is concerning in the context of the nation's ongoing development and electrification goals. Conversely, low-carbon electricity saw a positive and promising growth, increasing from 2693 kWh/person in 2024 to 2780 kWh/person in 2025, marking an 87 kWh increase. This uptick in clean energy generation is encouraging, signaling progress toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels and emphasizing the nation's potential for sustainable energy futures.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, China can prioritize the expansion of its wind energy sector, given its substantial existing output. Lessons can be drawn from countries like Denmark and states such as Iowa, where wind energy constitutes significant portions of their electricity generation—57% and 62%, respectively. Additionally, bolstering nuclear power should be explored, taking inspiration from France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for 69% and 64% of electricity generation. Considering the vast potential of solar energy, further investments in this domain should also be pursued, drawing parallels with regions like Lebanon, where solar contributes 31% to electricity production. Amplifying these efforts will not only help meet rising electrical demands but also bolster environmental sustainability and reduce harmful emissions associated with fossil fuels.
History
Historically, China's progression in low-carbon electricity has been marked by impressive strides across various technologies. In the early 2000s, hydropower saw substantial increases, notably in 2004, 2008, and 2010, with growth peaks of nearly 70, 100, and 107 TWh, respectively. The 2010s marked the rise of wind power, highlighted by significant contributions in 2018 and 2021. Solar power has seen exceptional growth in recent years, particularly durante 2023 and 2024, where increases soared to over 150 and 250 TWh, respectively. These developments underscore China's strong commitment toward advancing its low-carbon electricity capabilities, despite challenges in specific years such as the decline of hydro in 2023. The emphasis on expanding diverse clean power sources sets a solid foundation for future growth and sustainability.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.