Beijing, August 07, 2024, The Europe Today: China has introduced an ambitious action plan to expedite the construction of a “new electricity system” as part of its commitment to low-carbon development and energy security. The plan was jointly announced on Tuesday by the National Development and Reform Commission, the National Energy Administration (NEA), and the National Data Administration.
Key Objectives and Timeline
The action plan, which outlines initiatives across nine areas from 2024 to 2027, focuses on enhancing the transmission of clean electricity through advanced power generation, regulation, and control technologies. As wind and solar power generation increases in China’s desert and desertified regions, there is a pressing need to transmit this clean energy to consumption areas, according to an NEA press release.
Wind and Solar Power Expansion
China aims to elevate the total installed capacity of wind and solar power generation facilities in deserts and desertified areas to 455 million kilowatts by 2030. Currently, cross-regional transmission lines predominantly transport coal and hydro power.
Upgrading Coal-Fired Power Plants
The plan also addresses the need to upgrade coal-fired power plants to achieve substantial reductions in carbon emissions. “Coal-fired power will remain a crucial source of reliable electricity supply in our country. To achieve the goal of peaking carbon emissions, it is necessary to accelerate the low-carbon transformation of this sector,” the NEA stated.
Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
China’s burgeoning new-energy vehicle (NEV) market, with sales up 32 percent in the first half of 2024, has driven significant demand for charging facilities. The plan commits to expanding EV charging infrastructure, enhancing the integration and interaction between EVs and the power grid, and establishing standards for charging infrastructure. By the end of June, the number of charging piles in China reached 10.24 million units, a 54 percent year-on-year increase.
Rural Charging Facilities
Last week, an NEA spokesperson highlighted efforts to promote the construction of charging facilities in rural areas to tap into the potential of EV sales. One-third of China’s provincial-level regions have already built charging piles in towns and villages.
Power Distribution Network Development
The document also outlines measures to ensure the stable operation of China’s electricity system and to enhance the power distribution network. China’s electricity consumption, a key indicator of economic activity, saw an 8.1 percent increase in the first half of this year, reaching nearly 4.66 trillion kilowatt-hours.
Commitment to Green Development
In line with its commitment to green development, China has pledged to achieve the dual carbon goals of peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and reaching carbon neutrality by 2060, a timeline significantly shorter than that of many developed countries.
The comprehensive plan underscores China’s dedication to creating a sustainable and reliable energy future while advancing its position as a global leader in low-carbon development.
