Electricity in People's Republic of China in 2023/2024

Over the past 12 months, from August 2023 to July 2024, electricity consumption in the People’s Republic of China has been predominantly fossil-fuel based, with fossil energy sources accounting for more than 62% of the total consumption. Coal alone contributes approximately 59%, demonstrating a heavy reliance on this traditional source of energy. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources make up close to 38% of the electricity generation, split among hydropower (around 15%), wind (roughly 10%), solar (around 7%), and nuclear energy (around 4%). Gas and biofuels contribute a combined total of close to 5% of the electricity consumption, but these are relatively minor compared to the dominant energy sources.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, China can expand its already significant wind power capabilities, drawing inspiration from successful countries. For example, Denmark generates about 61% of its electricity from wind, providing a feasible model for China's future development of this energy source. This indicates immense potential for further growth in wind energy. Additionally, China can learn from South Korea and France, which generate 31% and 67% of their electricity from nuclear power, respectively. Given China's existing nuclear infrastructure, a strategic emphasis on expanding nuclear energy could also substantially increase its share of clean electricity.

History

Historically, China has seen substantial increases in its low-carbon electricity generation. Notably, from 2004 to 2014, hydropower experienced significant growth with notable year-on-year increases such as 99.9 TWh in 2008 and 106.5 TWh in 2010. However, in 2015 and 2016, growth in hydropower slowed down to around 65.9 TWh and 63.1 TWh, respectively. Wind energy took off prominently starting in 2017 with a rise of 58 TWh and continued to surge with increments like 70.8 TWh in 2018 and a remarkable 189.3 TWh in 2021. Solar energy similarly saw impressive growth, with notable increases of 65.9 TWh in 2021 and 156.9 TWh in 2023. Despite occasional declines such as a drop of 72.1 TWh in hydropower in 2023, the overall trend shows a robust expansion of low-carbon electricity generation over the past two decades.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources