The energy transition is gaining momentum across China, with a series of new projects coming online. In Mengcheng, Anhui province, the first turbine of the Banqiaoji Phase II wind power project has been successfully connected to the grid. This unit is currently operating stably, helping to expand new energy capacity and improve the energy structure in the northern Anhui region.
This local project is a microcosm of a nationwide shift. Guided by the "dual carbon" goals, China's energy sector is decarbonizing. According to the latest data from the National Energy Administration, over 8.27 million green certificates were traded nationwide in June 2026, with 4.289 million of those from green electricity. Wind and solar power are the two leading sources for these certificates, making them the core categories in the market.
Where to focus the green transformation
"The energy transition is a systematic project requiring coordinated efforts," said Professor Shao Shuai from Tongji University's School of Economics and Management. He emphasized the need to "build first before breaking," promoting the coordinated development of non-fossil energy sources like wind, solar, hydro, nuclear, and hydrogen. The goal is to accelerate the shift from a fossil fuel-dominated structure to a clean, low-carbon one.
Regions are leveraging their unique resources and industrial bases. In Lanzhou, Gansu province, a non-ferrous metal smelting company has built a low-carbon, circular industrial chain. The company has achieved zero wastewater discharge and 100% resource utilization of solid wastes and hazardous materials. Its waste heat recovery system saves 250,000 kWh of electricity and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 167 tonnes annually.
Why technology is crucial for the energy transition
Technological innovation is key to optimizing the energy system, driving it towards cleaner, low-carbon, and more efficient use. This green energy push not only supports the "dual carbon" goals but also helps secure the nation's energy independence.
In Xiyang, Shanxi province, a 50MW distributed wind power project has been connected to the grid. Eight turbines and a 110kV step-up substation have improved the local energy mix. The project is expected to save 30,900 tonnes of standard coal, cut carbon dioxide emissions by 57,100 tonnes, sulfur dioxide by 10.35 tonnes, and nitrogen oxides by 15.57 tonnes annually.
In Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, a 1,000MW desert wind-solar-storage project has been connected to the grid. It includes 850MW of wind power and 150MW of solar power. The project uses a four-in-one model combining wind, solar, storage, and ecological restoration, with a "power generation above, sand control below" approach for comprehensive development.
Large-scale projects and end-user benefits
Large-scale bases are building a solid foundation for green power supply, while end-user applications demonstrate the unity of environmental and economic benefits. "Accelerating the construction of a new energy system ensures energy supply and sustainable development while promoting regional economic growth," said Zhang Zhongxiang, founding dean of the Ma Yinchu School of Economics at Tianjin University. He added that the energy transition will create new growth points for the economy and trade.
In Ganzhou, Jiangxi province, a commercial distributed photovoltaic project has been commissioned. It includes both solar power generation and charging stations. The project is expected to generate 83,200 kWh annually, reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 44 tonnes, and lower electricity costs by 40,000 yuan per year, achieving both carbon reduction and cost savings.
Unlocking the full potential of the green energy system
"Expanding new energy capacity is just the starting point," Zhang Zhongxiang noted. "To build a safe and efficient new energy system, we must address consumption bottlenecks across the entire chain of power sources, grids, and users." He suggests that on the generation side, coal power should transition to a flexible, peaking role. On the grid side, capabilities for flexible dispatch and security management must be strengthened to handle the variability of wind and solar power. On the user side, accelerating the construction of zero-carbon industrial parks can expand industrial green electricity use. Finally, deepening the coordination between the electricity and carbon markets will help boost new energy consumption and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, driving sustainable development.
Comments