Xi Jinping, the President of China, announced that China is working to end its coal-fire projects abroad and at home at the United Nations General Assembly, this past september. Currently, China accounts for 54% of the world’s coal-created electricity, making the country the biggest consumer of coal.
As China moves rapidly towards becoming the world’s largest economy, the nation has been encouraged to end its use of coal, with the world making way towards renewable energy.
“China will step up support for other developing countries in developing green and low-carbon energy, and will not build new coal-fired power projects abroad”, said the President in a video recording. Xi Jinping had previously promised that China would hit peak emissions before 2030 and transition to carbon neutrality by 2060.
The news has been welcomed by the country’s inhabitants, as well as in neighbouring Mongolia and South Korea, where many suffer from the effects of the smog produced from coal. A study suggested that over 1 million people die annually as a result of air pollution in China.
“The biggest news yesterday from the UN Assembly, which will have a big impact on the Vietnam PDP 8 discussion we are having now”, said Liming Qiao, Head of GWEC Asia at Global Wind Energy Council. “It is high time to prioritise Renewable Energy, especially Offshore wind in the PDP, to diversify the energy system and avoid electricity shortage!”
“Finally: No more overseas coal with China’s support”, said Dr. Christoph Nedopil Wang, Associate Professor and Director Green Finance & Development Center. “This was a much anticipated statement and an important step to fight climate change across the World.”
On 1st November, the COP26 will take place in Glasgow, UK. Chinese representatives have been invited to the summit and it is hoped that more will be revealed about this ambitious plan there.
