Solar power eclipses coal in China, now supplying nearly one-third of capacity
Solar electricity has overtaken coal as China's top power source, representing almost a third of installed capacity by the end of July.
China's solar generation now exceeds coal for the first time, making up nearly 33% of total installed capacity at July's end, up from virtually none ten years ago. The rapid renewable expansion has increased overall power output and supports energy-intensive sectors such as artificial intelligence. Analysts say the shift reduces reliance on imported oil amid the ongoing Iran conflict, and an Oxford Institute for Energy Studies researcher noted the changing geopolitics of energy.
Why it matters
China's switch to solar reduces coal use, cuts emissions and lessens dependence on volatile oil imports.
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