China Vows to Expand Renewable Energy Capacity Sixfold by 2025

On September 26, 2025, China unveiled an updated climate action plan, positioning itself as a global leader in tackling the climate crisis. Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that the country, the world's largest emitter of CO2, will cut its net greenhouse gas emissions by 7 to 10% from peak levels and increase non-fossil fuel energy consumption to over 30% of the total energy mix by 2025.

Additionally, China plans to expand its installed capacity of wind and solar power to over six times the 2020 levels, striving to reach a total of 3,600 gigawatts. The country also aims to increase its total forest stock volume to surpass 24 billion cubic meters. Experts have noted that while China's updated climate plan falls short of the steep cuts required to align with the Paris Agreement, it still holds significant importance due to the country's global influence.

The announcement comes as a counter to U.S. President Donald Trump's previous claims that climate change is a "con job." China's commitment to accelerating its clean energy transition and reducing emissions has been praised by the international community, though some experts have raised concerns about the plan's lack of clarity on China's future emission pathway.