CNN —China, the world’s top carbon polluter, is at risk of falling short on its climate targets after approving dozens of new coal plants, according to research published Thursday.
In just two years, the country has approved 218 GW of new coal power, enough to supply electricity to the whole of Brazil.
China approved 114 gigawatts (GW) of coal power capacity in 2023, up 10% from a year earlier.
China’s total power capacity is already sufficient to meet demand, but its inefficient grid is unable to deliver electricity where it is needed, especially across provincial borders, encouraging more plant construction.
“This risks significant financial problems for coal power plant operators and potential pushback against the energy transition,” said Lauri Myllyvirta, CREA’s chief analyst.
Persons:
CREA, ”, Lauri Myllyvirta
Organizations:
CNN, Global Energy Monitor, Research, Energy, Clean
Locations:
China, Helsinki, Brazil