China has a huge potential for wind resources utilisation. According to the China Meteorological Administration, China’s on-shore and off-shore exploitable wind resources represent a potential power generation capacity of 253 gigawatts (GW) and 750 GW respectively – a total estimated wind power potential of about 1,000 GW. Even 60% of this could meet China’s entire current electricity demand. By 2030 it is estimated to be the country’s third-largest power resource after coal and hydroelectric power.
To prepare for its ambitious renewable target, China’s government will implement fiscal and tax policies to stimulate the development of renewable energy, including building special funds, feed-in tariffs and quota systems for renewable energy. China will require 2 trillion yuan (around 186 billion Euros or US$267 billion) of investment by 2020 to achieve its renewable targets, according to the NDRC’s deputy director. China’s wind energy development therefore represents a significant new business opportunities for the EU. These areas include: the transfer of wind turbine technology; training in management and related services; and direct equity investment in China’s wind power projects. [Full Text]
Xiao Shu holds an MSc in Environmental Technology and a BSc (Hon) in Environmental Management from Imperial College London. His particular area of interest is climate change, particularly with reference to the use of market-based mechanisms such as CDM. He also has a broad knowledge of CDM in China and has worked on the UNIDO-led renewable energy promotion program.