Read in Chinese
Speakers:
Zhang Jianhua, administrator of the National Energy Administration (NEA)
Wan Jinsong, vice administrator of the NEA
Song Wen, director general of the Department of Legal and Institutional Reform of the NEA
Li Chuangjun, director general of the Department of New Energy and Renewable Energy Sources of the NEA
Chairperson:
Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO
Date:
Aug. 29, 2024
Shou Xiaoli:
Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO).
Today, we are releasing the white paper titled "China's Energy Transition," and holding this press conference to introduce and interpret its main content.
The white paper, guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, implements General Secretary Xi Jinping's important ideas and proposals on the high-quality development of energy. It systematically explains China's policies, principles and practices in advancing energy transition guided by the general secretary's new energy security strategy aimed at revolutionizing consumption, supply, technology and institutions, while strengthening all-round international cooperation. The white paper comprehensively introduces the positive achievements China has made in forming a new green energy consumption model, constructing a new energy system, developing new quality productive forces in the energy sector, and advancing the modernization of energy governance. It demonstrates China's efforts and contributions in continuously deepening international green energy cooperation, and advancing sustainable global energy development. The white paper calls on the international community to plan energy cooperation together, address global climate change, promote harmony between humanity and nature, and build a clean, beautiful planet.
The white paper consists of a preface, main text and conclusion, totaling around 19,000 Chinese characters. The main text includes six sections: I. China's Path of Energy Transition in the New Era; II. Promoting Green Energy Consumption; III. Moving Faster to Build a New Energy Supply System; IV. Developing New Quality Productive Forces in the Energy Sector; V. Modernizing Energy Governance; and VI. Contributing to a Global Community of Shared Future.
The white paper is published in eight languages — Chinese, English, French, Russian, German, Spanish, Arabic and Japanese — by the People's Publishing House and the Foreign Languages Press, and is available at Xinhua Bookstore outlets across the country.
To help you better understand the white paper, we are glad to be joined today by Mr. Zhang Jianhua, administrator of the National Energy Administration (NEA), to introduce relevant conditions and answer your questions. Also present today are Mr. Wan Jinsong, vice administrator of the NEA; Mr. Song Wen, director general of the Department of Legal and Institutional Reform of the NEA; and Mr. Li Chuangjun, director general of the Department of New Energy and Renewable Energy Sources of the NEA.
Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Zhang for his introduction.
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Zhang Jianhua:
Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I am glad to join you today in witnessing the release of the white paper "China's Energy Transition." First, I would like to thank you for your interest in and support for China's energy sector.
Since the 18th CPC National Congress, following a new energy security strategy aimed at revolutionizing consumption, supply, technology and institutions, while strengthening all-round international cooperation, China has accelerated its energy transition, and pursued a path of energy transition that is suited to its actual conditions and meets the changing needs of our times. Ms. Shou just introduced the structure of the white paper, and I will briefly introduce the main contents of the document from four aspects.
First, the white paper systematically expounds the fundamental concepts of China's energy transition, which can be summarized as five principles. Putting the people first, China has always prioritized meeting people's needs for a better life and ensured people have a greater sense of gain and fulfillment in energy use. Pursuing green and low-carbon development, we have accelerated building an energy supply system dominated by non-fossil fuels, and promoting harmony between humanity and nature. Serving national development, we have applied the practice of establishing the new before discarding the old and pursed an orderly transition, ensuring secure and stable energy supply while accelerating green transition development. Boosting innovation as an impetus for growth, we are relying on technological and institutional innovation to promote green, low-carbon, safe and efficient energy development. Expanding opening up and cooperation, China upholds the vision of a global community with a shared future, and works with all countries to promote sustainable energy development. China respects the rights of developing countries to independently choose their own transition paths, and advance energy transition in an equitable, just and orderly fashion.
Second, the white paper comprehensively introduces China's achievements in energy transition practices, as demonstrated in the following four aspects: Clean energy development has made notable progress. By the end of 2023, the total installed capacity of power generation by wind and photovoltaic (PV) increased tenfold compared to a decade ago, with clean energy accounting for 58.2% of total installed capacity. Over half of the increase in total electricity consumption has come from newly added power generated by clean energy. The proportion of clean energy consumption in total energy consumption rose from 15.5% to 26.4%, while the proportion of coal consumption decreased by 12.1 percentage points. New achievements have been made in clean and effective energy utilization. In the past decade, China phased out over 100 million kilowatts of outdated coal power capacity, reducing pollutant emissions from the power sector by over 90%. The electrification rate of society-wide final energy consumption stood at 28%. Compared with 2012, energy consumption per unit of GDP decreased by more than 26%. Green energy technology has achieved new breakthroughs. China has built complete industrial chains for the R&D, design and manufacturing of wind and PV equipment, mastered the nuclear power technologies of third-generation pressurized water reactors (PWRs) as well as fourth-generation high-temperature gas-cooled reactors. China has become a front-runner throughout the hydropower industrial chain. Institutional energy reform has achieved new progress. A diversified energy market structure is gradually taking shape, a unified and open energy market system is gradually improving, and an energy pricing mechanism reflecting market supply and demand is gradually forming. The role of the market in enhancing the consumption of clean energy, ensuring electricity supply, and optimizing resource allocation is increasingly evident. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made new deployments on further deepening energy reform, aiming to further improve the mechanisms for green, low-carbon development and accelerate the construction of a new energy system.
Third, the white paper objectively demonstrates the contributions China has made to global green development. China has been a promoter and contributor in the global endeavor of energy transition. Over the past decade, China has been responsible for over 40% of the annual additions to global renewable energy capacity. The global share of non-fossil fuels in energy consumption rose from 13.6% to 18.5%, with China contributing 45.2% to this increase. Through sustained technological innovation, a sound system of industrial and supply chains, sufficient market competition, and the advantages of a super-scale market, China's new energy industry has developed rapidly and led to a drastic decrease in the costs of wind and PV power worldwide. China has strengthened cooperation on green energy with Belt and Road countries, and launched a significant number of "small yet smart" people-centered programs that provide these countries with clean, safe and reliable energy supply solutions.
Finally, the white paper also vividly illustrates China's proposal of working with other countries to jointly build a clean and beautiful world. Addressing the challenge of climate change and achieving sustainable energy use concerns the wellbeing of mankind. China is willing to work with the international community to expand pragmatic cooperation on energy transition; keep global energy industrial and supply chains stable, promoting open, inclusive and non-discriminatory flow of green energy products and technology; fulfill its role as a responsible major developing country together with other countries to improve global energy access; work with other countries to uphold the principle of equity, common but differentiated responsibilities, and respective capabilities to tackle challenges posed by climate change and protect our planet for the sake of human survival.
That is all for my introduction. Thank you.
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Shou Xiaoli:
Thank you Mr. Zhang for your introduction. The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking your question.
CCTV:
Over the past decade of the new era, China has advanced transition and reform in the areas of energy production, consumption, technical systems and international cooperation. What have been the major achievements in China's energy transition? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your question. I would like to invite Mr. Wan to answer this question.
Wan Jinsong:
Thank you for your question. This is a very good question, and also the key point illustrated in the white paper.
Over the past decade, the energy sector has resolutely implemented the new energy security strategy proposed by General Secretary Xi Jinping that aims at revolutionizing consumption, supply, technology and institutions, while strengthening all-round international cooperation. We have advanced the reform of the energy development model, providing a strong guarantee for high-quality economic and social development and the building of a Beautiful China. The achievements of energy transition can be summarized in five aspects.
First, China's energy transition has fast-tracked clean energy development. According to our statistics, as of the end of 2023, the total installed capacity of non-fossil energy power generation had reached over 15 GW, surpassing its thermal power capacity for the first time. The electricity generated from clean energy was about 3,800 TWh, accounting for nearly 40% of the country's total electricity generation, up by around 15 percentage points from 2013. Over the past decade, electricity generated from clean energy has accounted for more than 50% of the increase in total electricity consumption, marking a growing share of green energy in China's energy mix.
Second, China's energy transition has underpinned high-quality economic and social development. Over the past decade, investment in fixed assets in the energy sector totaled about 39 trillion yuan, with nearly 4 trillion yuan per year on average. The capacity for primary energy production has grown by 35%, providing a strong basis for steady and sound economic growth. We have established a complete industrial chain for energy equipment manufacturing. Technological innovations in new energy, hydropower, nuclear power, power transmission and transformation, and novel energy storage have accelerated, and the clean energy industry has become a new pillar of China's modern industrial system.
Third, China's energy transition has met the people's need for a better life. Over the past decade, China's energy demand and supply have remained balanced. Energy prices have also remained generally stable, effectively ensuring energy security for more than 1.4 billion people. Over 100 billion yuan from the central budget has been invested into upgrading rural power grids. In 2015, we enabled all areas of the country to have access to electricity. Per-capita electricity consumption has doubled from about 500 kWh to nearly 1,000 kWh over this period. The scale of household PV power installations in rural areas has reached 120 GW. This has led to an income increase of 11 billion yuan for farmers and the creation of around 2 million jobs per year.
Fourth, China's energy transition has synergized with high-standard eco-environmental protection. Compared with 2012, energy consumption per unit of GDP has decreased by more than 26%. Green and intensive development of energy and resources has been realized. The quality of China's refined oil products has reached advanced international levels. The average coal consumption of coal-fired power generation has reduced to 303 grams of standard coal per kilowatt-hour, with SO2 and NOX emissions of advanced coal-fired power generation units now comparable to the upper limits for natural gas power units. China's energy transition has effectively promoted significant improvements in the eco-environment and the building of a Beautiful China.
Finally, China's energy transition has contributed to the global energy transition and a clean and beautiful world. In 2023, China's investment in energy transition reached $676 billion, making it the world's largest investor in this field. China has continued to expand opening up and cooperation, and has provided quality clean energy products and services to the world. In 2023, China's exports of wind power and PV products helped other countries reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 810 million metric tons. China's new energy industry has added to the global energy supply, helped reduce the cost of the global energy transition, and contributed to the global transition to green development and efforts to combat climate change. Thank you.
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Phoenix TV:
Data from the International Energy Agency shows that in 2023, China's newly installed renewable energy capacity exceeded the total of other regions worldwide, making it the largest contributor to the development of the global renewable energy industry. How has this been achieved? Additionally, what positive impact do you believe the energy transition will have on global green and low-carbon development? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your questions. I'll address them. China resolutely follows the philosophy of green development in recent years, thoroughly transforming its growth model. By the end of 2023, China's installed capacity for renewable energy generation accounted for about 40% of the global total. Over the past decade, China's annual additions consistently comprised more than 40% of the global total, exceeding half in 2023. This has continually provided an impetus for global green development. The rapid growth of China's renewable energy sector can be attributed to three main factors:
First, continuous technological advancement. China has promoted initiatives like PV leader bases and large-scale new energy bases. These projects have promoted the demonstration and application of new technologies and accelerated the iteration and upgrade of technologies and products. Innovations have flourished in technologies such as PV high-efficiency crystalline silicon cells and perovskite cells. New world records for conversion efficiency have been repeatedly set, with mass-produced advanced crystalline silicon PV cells now exceeding 25% efficiency. Wind power technologies like long blades and high towers are globally leading, with offshore wind turbines reaching a maximum unit capacity of 18 megawatts.
Second, a complete industrial and supply chain. After years of development, China has built a relatively complete industrial and supply chain for new energy sources such as wind and PV. At the same time, China has actively integrated into the global clean energy industrial chain, sharing high-quality clean energy products worldwide. Chinese wind and PV technologies and products are exported to many countries and regions, supporting countries, especially developing ones, to access clean, reliable, and affordable energy.
Third, a favorable market environment. Amid rapid changes in the energy landscape both domestically and abroad, the Chinese government has dynamically improved policies and measures on the price of on-grid electricity generated from renewable energy sources, for promoting the absorption of electricity generated from new energy sources into power grids, and market allocation. These measures have fully leveraged the advantages of China's vast market to promote the healthy development of new energy. China has fostered an equal, open and inclusive market environment for new energy. This approach has attracted participation from various sectors of society in new energy development, fully unleashing the innovation vitality of the market. For example, China's PV industry now boasts over 100 listed companies.
As the world shifts toward green energy, China is accelerating its own renewable energy development while actively sharing high-quality and affordable clean energy products globally. This has effectively driven down costs for wind and PV development worldwide, providing tangible green power for the world's energy transition. It has created new opportunities for deepening international cooperation in clean energy and contributed China's strength to the global energy transition. Thank you.
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Bloomberg:
Many analysts have noted the staggering growth of clean energy generation this year and how it's been able to reduce thermal power generation over the summer months. Some speculate that China may have already peaked the emissions years before its 2030 target. What is the NEA's take on those assessments and does it think it's possible that China has already reached the peak emission? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your question. I'd like to invite Ms. Song to answer it.
Song Wen:
Thank you for your question. As you noted, China has maintained strong momentum in clean energy development, which my colleague illustrated with relevant data earlier. General Secretary Xi Jinping has emphasized that we pursue the goals of peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality not under compulsion but of our own accord. Our commitment to these goals is unwavering. Energy is a key area for achieving peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality. Following the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we're actively promoting green and low-carbon energy transition based on China's energy and resource endowment.
As of the end of July, China's installed renewable energy capacity had reached 1.68 billion kilowatts, over 54% of total capacity. Over the past decade, China's growth in non-fossil energy consumption has contributed more than 40% to the global total. Annual non-fossil power generation increased by 2.2 trillion kilowatt-hours, equivalent to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 2 billion tons. This has notably curbed overall carbon emission growth across society. However, it is important to recognize that China is still a developing country. We are advancing the modernization of a huge population, which means energy demand will continue to grow as people seek better lives. There are also increasing uncertainties and unpredictable factors. Therefore, it still requires arduous efforts to achieve the dual carbon goals.
The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed establishing new mechanisms to facilitate the transition from controlling the total amount and intensity of energy consumption to controlling the total amount and intensity of carbon emissions. Since the beginning of this year, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council have issued a series of policy documents on energy conservation and carbon reduction, including the recently issued Opinions on Accelerating the Comprehensive Green Transformation of Economic and Social Development and the Work Plan for Accelerating the Establishment of a Dual Control System for Carbon Emissions. These documents outline the framework for green, low-carbon development and the dual carbon targets in the coming years. The energy industry is also conducting preliminary research for the 15th Five-Year Plan, focusing on goals and tasks for the next phase of the energy transition. We'll intensify efforts to promote high-quality renewable energy development, advance the green and low-carbon energy transition, and aim to increase the proportion of non-fossil energy consumption by about 1 percentage point each year. We're capable and confident of reaching peak carbon emissions before 2030 as planned. Thank you.
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Xinhua News Agency:
The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed deepening reforms comprehensively and modernizing China's system and capacity for governance. What capabilities will China strengthen in terms of the energy transition? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for the question. I'll answer it. The energy transition is a broad and profound systemic transformation of the economy and society, requiring a significant enhancement of the energy governance system and modernization of governance capacity. In recent years, China has leveraged the decisive role of the market in resource allocation through various measures, such as promoting reform, improving policies, and ensuring the rule of law. These efforts have given better play to the role of the government and created a favorable development environment for the energy transition. As you said, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed deepening reform of the energy management system and accelerating the planning and development of a new type of energy system, providing a clear direction for building the energy governance system and capacity. Next, we will focus on four key areas of work.
First, we need to deepen energy reform. We will establish a unified national electricity market, continue expanding the coverage of markets for spot trading of electricity, and further improve the allocation of electricity resources. We'll also establish and improve mechanisms for green and low-carbon development, accelerate the cultivation of green electricity and green electricity certificate markets, and improve the policies for promoting the absorption of electricity generated from new energy sources into power grids and for the regulation of such energy. Additionally, we will promote the safe, reliable, and orderly replacement of fossil fuels with non-fossil energy. We will promote independent operation of natural monopoly businesses and advance market-oriented reforms in the competitive areas.
Second, we need to improve energy legislation. We will formulate an energy law, compile an environmental code, accelerate revisions to the Renewable Energy Law, Energy Conservation Law, and Electric Power Law, and strengthen the enactment of laws on energy saving and efficiency improvement as well as prioritizing clean energy development and utilization. Moreover, we will implement incentive and constraint systems such as green certificates to promote green energy consumption and support green and low-carbon technology innovation. We will also promote the formulation and revision of laws and regulations guiding green and low-carbon energy use in key sectors.
Third, we need to strengthen development planning. We'll conduct thorough research and preparation for the 15th Five-Year Plan for energy, fully leveraging the strategic guiding role of national energy planning in major project layouts, public resource allocation, and social capital investment. We will balance development and security, clarifying an energy transition timeline and roadmap. Additionally, we'll improve standards for green and low-carbon energy development.
Fourth, we need to strengthen energy oversight. We will enhance the supervision of major energy plans and the implementation of clean energy projects. We'll increase oversight of the absorption of electricity generated from renewable energy sources into power grids and the construction and operation of adjustable energy supplies to ensure the effective application of major energy transition policies. We will also tighten supervision of market transactions, pricing mechanisms, and information disclosure to ensure the effective implementation of rules for new energy market participation. Thanks.
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Reuters:
China's 14th Five-Year Plan set a goal to reach 1,200 gigawatts of installed solar and wind capacity by 2030. As of July, China achieved this target six years ahead of schedule. Since new energy development has exceeded expectations, will China further raise its 2030 target? Additionally, in 2025, the Paris Agreement requires signatory countries to propose their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) for 2035. Will China increase the ambition of its energy transformation targets in its next NDC? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your questions and interest in our energy industry, particularly new energy development. We are very grateful. I'll defer to Mr. Li Chuangjun for the answer.
Li Chuangjun:
Thank you for your questions. On Dec. 12, 2020, President Xi Jinping announced at the Climate Ambition Summit that China's installed capacity for wind and solar power would exceed 1.2 billion kilowatts by 2030. China's energy industry has earnestly implemented the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping, resolutely carried out the policies and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and vigorously promoted the high-quality development of wind and solar power. The scale of wind and PV installations has reached new milestones. By the end of July this year, China's installed capacity of wind power reached 471 million kilowatts, and that of solar power reached 735 million kilowatts, resulting in a combined capacity of 1.206 billion kilowatts.
China's rapid development of wind and solar power has significantly contributed to addressing climate change, ensuring energy supply, promoting the clean and low-carbon transition, and advancing global new energy development. China has become a key leader and promoter in global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions. At the same time, to achieve carbon peaking and ensure the proportion of non-fossil energy consumption reaching about 25% of total energy use by 2030, China needs to continue promoting large-scale, high-quality development of wind and solar power.
Regularly updating NDCs is a bottom-up global climate governance mechanism established by the Paris Agreement. Under this mechanism, each party sets its climate targets based on national conditions. Since the beginning of this year, following the Paris Agreement and related decisions, relevant departments in China have been actively studying and evaluating the next round of NDC targets in light of new situations and changes. It is important to emphasize that China's commitment to its dual carbon goals remains unwavering. However, the path, method, pace and intensity to achieve these goals should and must be determined by China itself, without external influence. China will adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and set well-conceived new goals and measures in light of the country's national realities. This will contribute significantly to jointly addressing climate change and building a clean and beautiful planet. Thank you.
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21st Century Business Herald:
The action plan for quickly building a new type of power system (2024-2027) was released to the public recently. Could you please provide an update on the current progress of constructing such a system and outline the considerations for future steps? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your questions. Mr. Wan will address them.
Wan Jinsong:
Thank you for your questions; they are indeed pertinent. To drive the energy transition, it is imperative to vigorously develop new energy sources. To achieve this, we must expedite the construction of a new type of power system that is clean and low-carbon, secure and adequate, economical and efficient, supply-demand coordinated, flexible and intelligent. In recent years, our energy sector has strengthened overall planning, advancing the construction of the new power system through policies, platforms, capabilities and markets.
In terms of policies, we are continuously refining the policy framework for the new power system. Recently, as you have noted, the National Development and Reform Commission, the NEA, and the National Data Administration jointly issued the action plan to quickly build a new type of power system (2024-2027). Based on the current stage of development, the plan focuses on key areas urgently needing breakthroughs in the near term for the construction of the new system. By selecting typical and representative directions to advance work, it aims to address major issues through sharply focused efforts. We've proposed nine special actions to coordinate the development of the new power system. For instance, the plan proposes expanding the network of electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities. This will not only meet the charging needs of EVs but also promote greater new energy consumption through vehicle-grid integration.
In terms of platforms, we're strengthening the power grid's role in resource allocation. We continue to improve the main grid structure, advance the planning and construction of trans-provincial and trans-regional transmission channels, and upgrade and transform distribution networks. By the end of 2025, China's trans-provincial and trans-regional transmission capacity is expected to reach 360 million kilowatts. The distribution network will be capable of accommodating around 500 million kilowatts of distributed new energy sources and approximately 12 million charging piles. The grid's capacity to carry and allocate power resources will significantly improve.
In terms of capabilities, we're strengthening flexible regulation capacity. We continue to promote the "three reforms" of coal-fired power plants in energy conservation, heat supply and flexibility. These efforts further improve coal power's efficient regulation performance and clean, low-carbon levels. We're coordinating the development of regulatory resources such as pumped storage and new energy storage while deeply tapping into demand response and regulation capabilities. Since the beginning of the 14th Five-Year Plan period, the country has completed the "three reforms" for coal-fired power units exceeding 740 million kilowatts. As of the end of June this year, the installed capacity of pumped storage nationwide reached 54.39 million kilowatts, while the installed capacity of new energy storage was 44.44 million kilowatts.
Regarding markets, we're fully leveraging their decisive role in resource allocation. We're actively promoting the construction of a unified national electricity market system. Through market transactions, we aim to guide the efficient and rational use of electricity, invigorate the vitality of business entities, and promote the large-scale optimization of electricity resources. In 2023, the volume of electricity traded in the Chinese power market accounted for 61.4% of total electricity consumption nationwide.
Looking ahead, we'll adhere to planning-led development, focusing on research and preparation for the 15th Five-Year Plan for energy and electricity development. We'll establish and improve working mechanisms, issue implementation plans for special actions, and efficiently and orderly advance the implementation of various actions for the new power system. We'll continuously enhance the grid's capacity for absorbing, distributing, and regulating clean energy. Thank you.
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Guangming Daily:
I am particularly interested in issues related to sci-tech innovation. Sci-tech innovation is the core driving force behind China's energy transition. I've also noticed that the white paper outlines China's achievements in sci-tech innovation related to the energy transition. Could you please elaborate on the specific measures China has taken in this regard? Thank you.
Song Wen:
Thank you for your question. China has deeply implemented its innovation-driven development strategy in recent years, strengthening top-level design for energy technology innovation. We've established a "four-in-one" energy sci-tech innovation system that integrates major technology R&D, major equipment development, major demonstration projects and sci-tech innovation platforms. This approach promotes the deep integration of innovation and industrial chains, achieving important phased progress.
We're focusing on three key initiatives. First, we're promoting collaborative innovation. Leveraging major sci-tech projects and innovation platforms and the construction of major projects in the energy sector, we're strengthening collaborative innovation between industries, universities, research institutes, and end-users with enterprises as the main body. We've established and improved mechanisms for tackling key technologies and promoted the effective integration of technology R&D, result commercialization, and demonstration projects. Second, we're promoting the improvement of the policy framework. We've issued a series of strategic plans and industrial policies for sci-tech innovation in the energy sector, formulating innovation roadmaps and timelines. These support the development of new industries, models, and business forms, such as new energy storage, hydrogen energy, and the digital and smart transformation of the energy sector. Finally, we're accelerating the transformation of scientific achievements. We've continued to demonstrate pioneering major technological equipment and expedited the conversion of major energy sci-tech breakthroughs into real-world productive forces.
Next, the energy industry will continue to strengthen the role of technological innovation as the primary driving force, focusing on three key areas: First, we will fully unleash innovation potential. We will leverage the leading and driving role of innovation platforms to accelerate the overall efficiency of the energy technology innovation system, with enterprises as the primary contributors. Second, we will vigorously foster and develop new quality productive forces. We will promote technological advancements in areas such as new energy, nuclear power and smart grids. This includes actively nurturing new technologies, industries and business models, turning energy technologies and related industries into new growth drivers for industrial upgrading. Third, we will enhance the transformation and application of achievements. We will rely on major projects to promote breakthroughs, demonstrations, and the adoption of energy technologies and equipment. By creating a favorable environment for the early adoption of energy technology outcomes, we aim to continuously advance the iterative upgrading of new technologies and products through engineering applications. Thank you.
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China Electric Power News:
Data shows that from 2013 to 2023, China maintained an average annual economic growth rate of 6% with an average annual energy consumption growth rate of 3.2%. Meanwhile, China's energy intensity decreased by a total of 26.1%, making it one of the fastest countries in the world in reducing energy intensity. How has China's energy usage evolved compared with the past? And what measures will be taken to consolidate this positive trend? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your questions. I would like to invite Mr. Li to answer your questions.
Li Chuangjun:
Thank you for your questions. Green is the cornerstone of ecological civilization, and China firmly upholds and practices the belief that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. Since General Secretary Xi Jinping proposed the new energy security strategy of "Four Reforms and One Cooperation" in 2014, China has undertaken a series of green innovation initiatives, leading to an accelerated transformation in energy consumption patterns. As Mr. Zhang mentioned earlier, this transformation is primarily reflected in three key areas:
First, energy utilization has become more streamlined and efficient. China has consistently adhered to the principle of prioritizing energy conservation, enhancing efficiency in key energy-consuming sectors, and firmly curbing unreasonable energy consumption. Over the past decade, China has become one of the fastest countries in reducing energy intensity globally, resulting in an approximate saving of 1.4 billion metric tons of standard coal. As you mentioned, we have supported an average annual economic growth rate of 6% with an average annual energy consumption growth rate of 3.2%.
Second, the shift toward cleaner, low-carbon energy consumption has accelerated. The energy consumption structure has continued to optimize. Over the past decade, the proportion of coal consumption has decreased by a total of 12.1 percentage points, while non-fossil fuel consumption has more than doubled, with the level of electrification increasing by about 7 percentage points. In 2023, China's wind and PV power generation exceeded the electricity consumption of urban and rural residents, meaning that one-third of the electricity consumed nationwide was green electricity. The quality of oil products has achieved a three-level upgrade from the National III to National VI standards, and the population using natural gas has increased by 300 million, reaching 560 million people. Additionally, pilot applications of nuclear energy for heating and steam supply have been successfully implemented.
Finally, the concept of green energy consumption has rapidly taken shape. China actively promotes green and low-carbon lifestyles, vigorously advocates the excellent Chinese tradition of diligence and thrift, and is fostering a shift in lifestyle and consumption patterns toward simplicity, moderation, green, low-carbon and healthy living. We have launched campaigns to promote green living, organized themed activities such as National Ecology Day, stepped up efforts to promote green and low-carbon products, and encouraged the public to prioritize green transportation methods such as public transportation, cycling and walking.
Since the beginning of this year, documents such as the national guidelines to ramp up the green transition of socio-economic development and the action plan for energy conservation and carbon reduction for 2024-2025 have been implemented. These documents provide comprehensive guidance on promoting green transformation in key sectors, including industrial layout, spatial patterns, technological innovation and policy support. Going forward, we will ensure the effective implementation of these measures, actively expand green consumption, and accelerate the formation of green and low-carbon production and lifestyles. Thank you.
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National Business Daily:
The white paper introduces the status of China's energy transformation. What advanced experiences and practices does China have in energy transformation? And what solutions has China contributed to the global energy transformation? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your questions. I will address this. China's energy transformation faces two main challenges: ensuring energy security and accelerating green and low-carbon development. China has proposed a new energy security strategy and achieved significant results in energy transformation, forging a path that aligns with our national conditions and meets the requirements of the times. Our work has focused on five key areas:
First, we have established the vision of building a global community of shared future. We have proposed and implemented the vision of a global community of shared future and a community of life for humanity and nature, and taken an energy transition path of openness and cooperation to promote global sustainable development. Adhering to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, we have deepened energy transition cooperation with all countries under the Belt and Road Initiative framework and contributed China's strength to global green and low-carbon energy transition, in a bid to benefit people and the world.
Second, we have turned development blueprints into tangible projects. China has set goals for peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality, fully harnessing the guiding role of national strategic plans. We have formulated medium- to long-term and five-year overall plans for the energy sector as well as plans for the development of renewable energy. These set specific goals, tasks and paths for green and low-carbon energy transition and development, which we have steadfastly advanced.
Third, we have focused on coordinating supply and demand. We have taken solid steps in "addition and subtraction" in this regard. On the supply side, we have delivered a strong performance in "addition" by improving the quality and expanding the quantity of non-fossil fuels. We have vigorously developed non-fossil energy, continuously optimized the energy structure and increased the proportion of non-fossil fuels in new energy demand. On the consumption side, we have excelled in "subtraction" through energy conservation and carbon reduction. Adhering to the principle that energy conservation is a primary energy source, we have tightened control over fossil fuel consumption, accelerated the clean and efficient use of fossil energy, and mobilized all sectors of society to use green energy and implement clean substitutes.
Fourth, we have established the new before abolishing the old and advanced energy transition in a well-ordered way. We have coordinated development and security, accelerating the transition while ensuring a safe and stable supply of energy. We have expedited the construction of a new electricity system, boosted the capacity of power grids to absorb new energy sources, and implemented reliable substitutes for fossil fuels in a well-ordered way. At the same time, we have also given full play to the supporting and guaranteeing role of traditional energy, promoting synergy and complementarity between new and traditional energy sources.
Fifth, we have balanced fairness and efficiency. On the one hand, we have intensified efforts to develop the energy market, promoting investment in new energy through market price signals. We have guided the transition by emphasizing the roles of thermal power as a basic guarantee and in systematically regulating power use. We have optimized energy consumption behavior and stimulated social demand for green energy. On the other hand, we have strengthened law-based governance, improving the legal framework for energy transition. We have strengthened market supervision, optimized public services, and created a stable, fair, transparent and predictable development environment for all types of business entities. This approach ensures an organic unity of efficiency and fairness in energy transition. Thank you.
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Cover News:
China's EV industry has developed rapidly in recent years, but charging congestion occurs in some areas and during certain periods. What has the NEA done to improve EV charging infrastructure? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your question. I'll invite Mr. Wan to respond.
Wan Jinsong:
Thank you for your question. China places great importance on the development of EV charging infrastructure, viewing it as crucial for promoting green, low-carbon energy transition and high-quality development in the transportation sector. Generally, national charging services for EVs have largely met the needs of the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry and the public's travel needs. However, as you mentioned, in some areas and during certain periods, such as holidays, particularly busy expressway service areas may have queues for EV charging. To address this issue, in recent years, the NEA has been committed to making improvements in three aspects and advancing its efforts in two ways.
First, we have improved the policy system. We issued policy documents, including the Implementation Opinions on Further Improving the Guaranteed Service Capacity of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure. These documents have provided policy support and outlined specific work arrangements for layout plans, construction and operation, supporting power grids, and price rewards and subsidies.
Second, we have improved the EV charging network. According to the latest statistics, China had 10.6 million charging facilities as of July 2024, effectively meeting the charging needs of more than 25 million NEVs. In downtown areas of first-tier cities, the public charging service radius is already equivalent to gas stations. At present, charging piles have been installed at 95% of expressway service areas, forming an inter-city charging network covering "10 vertical, 10 horizontal and two rings of expressways" across China. Over one-third of the country's provincial-level regions have built charging piles in all their towns and villages.
Third, we have improved standards for EV charging. We issued 106 standards related to EV charging facilities, covering 21 professional fields and improving safety regulations across the industrial chain. At present, China's high-power direct current charging standard has reached a world-class level, with breakthroughs in wireless charging, roaming charges and other fields. The country's charging standard system is now on par with those of the United States, Europe, and Japan.
First, we should promote the rapid upgrading of charging technology. Currently, China has already established multiple routes of technology development, including conductive charging, battery swapping and wireless charging, with the full localization of DC charging power modules. Over the past five years, costs have been reduced by 90%. We have spearheaded globally the introduction of charging methods, such as charging pantograph s and group charging and control, rapidly popularizing high-power charging technology and achieving demonstration applications of vehicle-grid interaction.
Second, we should foster an industrial ecosystem. Currently, private enterprises account for over 70% of the equipment scale among charging station operators. We have gradually established a user-centric charging service system to ensure "someone builds, someone manages and sustainability." By integrating charging cloud services with industries, such as automobiles, finance and transportation, we have formed an "internet + charging" industrial ecosystem.
Next, we will accelerate the construction of a high-quality charging infrastructure system in accordance with the requirements of the action plan to build a system for new energy sources between 2024 and 2027 to support the green and low-carbon development of the transportation sector. We believe that with the continuous improvement of our country's charging infrastructure construction layout and service system, the issues of slow and difficult charging in some regions, and at specific times, will be further alleviated, and the charging experience for car owners will become more comfortable. Thank you!
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Shou Xiaoli:
Due to time constraints, last question please.
Beijing Youth Daily:
Regarding non-fossil energy, I'd like to specifically ask about nuclear power. In recent years, China has achieved remarkable growth in terms of both scale and speed in developing nuclear power and has established a complete industrial chain for nuclear power technology. How can China's nuclear power industry ensure safer, greener, more efficient as well as diversified development in the future? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you for your question and for your interest in our nuclear power industry. Nuclear power may be a niche product, but it is indeed a clean, low-carbon and efficient high-quality energy source, serving as an important base-load power source in the power system. Developing nuclear power is of great significance for ensuring energy security, promoting a green and low-carbon energy transformation, and helping achieve the goals of reaching peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality. China's nuclear power industry actually started in the 1980s. After 40 years of exploration and practice, we have established a complete industrial system and are one of the few countries in the world with a complete nuclear power industrial system. The past decade of the new era has especially been the fastest period of development for our country's nuclear power industry, achieving historic accomplishments. We have accumulated rich experience and engineering capabilities in nuclear power technology research and development, engineering design, equipment manufacturing, construction, and operation.
You may have noticed that last week, the State Council approved five new nuclear power projects, totaling 11 units. Currently, China has approved a total of 102 nuclear power units in operation and under construction in the mainland, with a total installed capacity of 113.13 million kilowatts. This ranks first in the world. Currently, 56 units are in operation with an installed capacity of 58.08 million kilowatts. The 46 approved units, including those currently under construction, have an installed capacity of 55.05 million kilowatts. Therefore, combining both operational and under-construction units, China ranks first globally.
In recent years, our country's operational nuclear power units have maintained high levels of power generation, fully leveraging their role as baseload power sources. Although nuclear power accounts for less than 2% of the country's total installed capacity, it generates nearly 5% of the total electricity output. In particular, nuclear power has become an important supporting and primary power source in eastern coastal regions. In five provinces—Liaoning, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong and Hainan—nuclear power accounts for more than 20% of the total electricity generated, playing a vital role in ensuring power supply.
The 20th National Congress of the CPC also made strategic plans for the active, safe and orderly development of nuclear power, charting the course for nuclear power development in the new era. In the future, we will follow the central government's deployment, balancing development and safety. We will adhere to the strictest standards for planning and approval, the highest quality for project construction, the most rigorous requirements for operation and management as well as the strictest measures for supervision and regulation to ensure steady and orderly construction progress. We will actively promote the comprehensive utilization of nuclear energy in heating, steam supply and seawater desalination, steadily increase the proportion of nuclear power in energy and electricity consumption as well as support the energy revolution and green and low-carbon development. At the same time, we are actively participating in global nuclear power construction, sharing China's experience and contributing to the global effort to combat climate change. Thank you.
Shou Xiaoli:
Thank you, Mr. Zhang Jianhua. Thank you to all the presenters and to all the journalists for participating. That's all for today's press conference. Goodbye!
Translated and edited by Liu Jianing, Wang Qian, Xu Kailin, Ma Yujia, Li Huiru, Mi Xingang, Huang Shan, Yan Xiaoqing, Yang Chuanli, Liu Sitong, Liu Caiyi, Yuan Fang, Yan Bin, Wang Wei, Wang Ziteng, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.
