China's Energy Development Over 75 Years: Key Achievements In Clean Power And Efficiency

China has achieved significant progress in energy development over the last 75 years. The country is accelerating its shift towards green and low-carbon energy, while also enhancing energy efficiency. A recent report from the National Bureau of Statistics highlighted these advancements.

In 2023, China's primary energy output reached 4.83 billion tonnes of standard coal. This marks a substantial increase from 1949, with an average annual growth rate of 7.4 percent. The report was cited by China Central Television (CCTV).

The capacity for power production in China has seen continuous improvement. Electricity generation rose from 4.3 billion kWh in 1949 to 9.5 trillion kWh in 2023, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 11 percent.

The share of clean power sources like hydropower, nuclear, wind, and solar has grown significantly. From generating 44.6 billion kWh in 1978, clean power reached 3.2 trillion kWh in 2023, with an average annual growth rate of 10 percent.

Over the past seven decades, China's energy consumption has steadily increased. In 1953, total energy consumption was just 50 million tonnes of standard coal but rose to 5.72 billion tonnes by 2023, showing an average annual growth rate of 6.9 percent.

The proportion of clean energy in total power generation expanded from 17.4 percent to 33.7 percent during this period, highlighting China's commitment to cleaner energy sources.

Per Capita Energy Consumption

Per capita energy consumption has also improved markedly over time. In 1953, it was only 93 kg of standard coal per person; by 2023, it had increased to 4,053 kg per person, a rise of over forty times with an average annual growth rate of 5.5 percent.

This comprehensive transformation underscores China's dedication to sustainable energy practices and its ongoing efforts to enhance both production capacity and consumption efficiency.

With inputs from WAM