IRENA says 26% renewable energy in China is achievable by 2030

Nov 24, 2014 - China can reach a 26% renewables share in its energy mix in 2030 with annual spending of USD 145 billion (EUR 117bn) over the next 15 years, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) calculates.

The mentioned investment volume per year is an increase of only USD 54 billion over the business-as-usual case, under which China will end up with a 17% renewables share in 2030, according to IRENA's “Renewable Energy Prospects: China” report, published today.

The agency points out that with more renewables China can save between USD 55 billion and USD 228 billion annually on costs related to human health and reduced emissions. A 26% green energy share would translate into 18% lower coal demand in 2030 over the business-as-usual case, IRENA added.

“China’s energy use is expected to increase 60% by 2030. How China meets that need will determine whether or not the world can curb climate change,” said Adnan Z Amin, Director-General of IRENA.

The report is part of the REmap 2030, with which IRENA aims to show how the share of renewable energy in the world’s energy mix can double by 2030.

(USD 1 = EUR 0.807)

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