- China has launched the world’s largest solar plant in Xinjiang. It covers 200,000 acres and generates over 6 billion kilowatt hours annually.
- The 5GW complex, now connected to China’s grid, can power a country the size of Luxembourg or Papua New Guinea.
- A recent IEA report highlights China’s role in renewable energy, stating that by 2028.
China has launched the world’s largest solar plant in Xinjiang province. The facility spans 200,000 acres, matching the size of New York City. It aims to generate over 6 billion kilowatt hours annually to power a small nation.
The 5GW solar complex connected to China’s grid would meet the electricity needs of countries. Such as Luxembourg or Papua New Guinea. This installation surpasses China’s Ningxia Teneggeli and Golmud Wutumeiren projects, becoming the largest globally.
China, leading in solar power, boosted its capacity by over 50% in 2023. A recent International Energy Agency (IEA) report described China’s renewable energy efforts as “extraordinary.” In 2022, China commissioned as much solar capacity as the rest of the world combined.
The IEA report states that China will contribute nearly 60% of new global renewable capacity by 2028. “China’s role is critical in tripling global renewables, with the country expected to install more than half of the new capacity needed by 2030. By then, almost half of China’s electricity will come from renewables,” the report notes.
Longi Green Energy Technology estimated that outfitting China’s rooftops with solar panels could generate enough power for all households in China and Southeast Asia combined.
However, China’s rapid solar panel production has sparked concerns about overcapacity and trade tensions. Last month, US President Joe Biden announced a doubling of tariffs on Chinese solar cell imports from 25% to 50%.
China’s new solar plant marks a significant milestone in renewable energy, demonstrating its commitment to leading the global shift towards sustainable power. The country’s efforts underscore the importance of renewable energy in meeting future global energy demands.