Xi: Pioneering wind, solar energy was visionary move

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for accelerating the planning and construction of a new energy system, as the war in the Middle East is disrupting the global energy supply.

Xi Jinping stressed the importance of developing hydropower and environmental protection, as well as of a safe expansion of nuclear energy, according to the state broadcaster CCTV, Anadolu Agency reported.

China’s pioneering development of wind and solar energy has now proven to be visionary, the president pointed out. At the same time, he added, coal-fired power plants remain the foundation of its energy sector and should continue to play a supporting role.

The country should stay committed to the clean and low-carbon development path, Xi stressed.

China still relies on domestic coal

China maintains strategic crude oil reserves of 1.3 billion barrels, enough for several months. Its diversified energy mix includes nuclear, solar, and wind power, but it is also relying on domestic coal.

Xi also said that energy issues are key to development.

A greener, more diversified, and more resilient new energy system will provide a strong guarantee for China’s energy security and economic development, the Chinese president explained.

In 2024, China imported 35% of its energy from Gulf countries

China imported 35% of its energy from Persian Gulf countries in 2024, paying USD 413 billion. The US and Israeli attack on Iran, and the escalation of the conflict, have crippled the global supply of oil and gas and brought extreme upward pressure on prices.

Due to the conflict, the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% to 25% of global oil and gas trade passes, has been closed.

China is a global leader in the development of renewable energy sources and green technologies, such as battery energy storage systems.

In 2020, Xi presented his country’s pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Reports say it is on track to reach the goal.

Two years ago, the combined capacity of wind and solar farms in China surpassed coal-fired power plants. By the middle of last year, the country accounted for three quarters of solar and wind power plants under construction globally.