In an effort to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, China has plans to further increase development of renewable energy sources, particularly wind power, through 2015. As the world’s largest energy user and carbon emitter, the country has created a goal of 100 gigawatts of wind power working by the end of 2015, and for 190 billion killowatt hours of wind power annually.
This goal is higher than the original goal proposed by the National Energy Administration, which targeted 90 gigawatts.
By the end of 2015, normal hydropower capacity is going to be raised to 260 GW from the previous target of 250 GW, according to an official government comment. For solar, photovoltaic solar power will account for 9 of the 10 GW increase, with solar thermal capacity making up the rest.
The government is also considering setting quotas for grid operators in regard to renewable power, making sure renewable power is being transmitted and used efficiently.
When these goals come into play, one-third of China’s solar capacity could be roof-mounted by 2015, and more than half by 2020. As one of the world’s leading exporters, this has the potential to be an immense innovation that could, over time, lower the cost of goods around the world. Not a bad idea during trying economic times, is it?
Image CC licensed by jcrakow: Solar panels in Shanghai, China