China’s Surge in Solar and Hydro Points to Early Carbon Peak
- Emissions may be falling years ahead of Beijing’s 2030 target
- Much depends on the trajectory of China’s stuttering economy
June 14: China Solar Industry in 'Deep Down Cycle', Says Polysilicon Maker
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China has reduced power generation from fossil fuels as output from sunlight and water surges, feeding hopes that the world’s biggest polluter may have peaked emissions years before its own deadline.
Thermal power, which accounts for the bulk of China’s carbon footprint, fell 4.3% in May from the previous year, the biggest drop since 2022, the statistics bureau reported on Monday. Hydroelectric jumped 39% after heavy rains fed a recovery in the world’s most powerful dams. Output from large solar farms rose by 29% following a record increase in new panels last year.