What in the World China’s renewable energy takeover
Oct 8, 2025
Tony Chan, a journalist with the BBC's Global China Unit, delves into China's monumental shift towards renewable energy, revealing that it has boosted solar and wind capacity more than any other nation. He discusses the contrasts between China's heavy reliance on coal and its ambitious green initiatives. The conversation touches on the strategic motivations behind this shift and its implications for global climate leadership, alongside the visible signs of China's green transition, including extensive solar farms and electric vehicles.
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What Makes Energy Renewable
- Tony Chan defines renewables as wind and solar that don't run out and contrasts them with fossil fuels.
- He explains fossil fuels are consumed chemically and gone after use, unlike renewable sources.
China's Current Energy Mix
- Tony Chan says China still relies heavily on coal for about 60% of its electricity.
- He notes the remaining ~40% comes from wind, solar and hydroelectric power.
Speed Over Snapshot
- China lags richer Western countries on a snapshot but matches the EU/UK on renewable share.
- The standout is China's rapid scale and speed of installing turbines and panels.