How China can control new coal power plant build-out

A report found local governments have permitted a combined 106GW of new coal power capacity.

China can control the construction of new coal-fired power plants by rejecting or revoking permits issued for projects that are not necessary for grid stability of renewable energy integration.

A report by the Global Energy Monitor (GEM) found that two coal-fired power plants have been approved weekly by local governments in China in 2022. This is equivalent to 106 gigawatts of new coal power capacity. 

The report found that provinces in China permit the construction of new coal-fired power plants in support of grid stability as well as the integration of clean energy. 

Read more: Two new coal power plants get green light in China weekly: report

“China continues to be the glaring exception to the ongoing global decline in coal plant development. The speed at which projects progressed through permitting to construction in 2022 was extraordinary, with many projects sprouting up, gaining permits, obtaining financing and breaking ground apparently in a matter of months,” Flora Champenois, Research Analyst, GEM, said.

“This kind of a process leaves little room for proper planning or consideration of alternatives.”

Moreover, GEM also recommended that China should speed up its investment in renewables generation as well as electricity storage, flexibility, and transmission within grid regions.