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Friday, 23 October 2026

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Solar power surpasses coal as largest electricity source in China

China has achieved a significant milestone: solar power has now overtaken coal as the largest source of electricity generation.

Archive photo: Solar power surpasses coal as largest electricity source in China
Archive photoPhoto: endegelaende · Flickr · BY-SA

In China, solar power has for the first time surpassed coal as the largest electricity source. According to recent figures, the share of solar power now stands at 31.5 percent of the country's total installed electricity generation capacity.

China is recognized as a world leader in solar energy expansion and has made significant efforts over recent years to increase the share of renewable energy. Developments in photovoltaic technology show that the country is making progress in this sector.

Archive photo: Solar power surpasses coal as largest electricity source in China
Archive photoPhoto: Molgreen · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Nevertheless, China is also considered one of the largest CO2 emitters in the world. Despite the success in solar power generation, coal remains a central energy source in the country, which has drawn international criticism in recent years.

The balance between promoting renewable energy and using fossil fuels remains a significant issue in China’s climate policy. Recent developments in solar energy could be seen as a sign of a shift in electricity generation, yet more precise measures to reduce emissions are still expected.

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