China accelerates on coal-fired power plants, says Greenpeace

A coal-fired power plant near Beijing, China. REUTERS/Jason Lee

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China is the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases responsible for rising temperatures. And yet, the country is preparing to double its coal-fired electricity capacity. Environmental groups, including Greenpeace, fear this could complicate Beijing's commitments to reduce its emissions from fossil fuels.

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In the first quarter, China's provincial authorities approved the construction of coal-fired power plants with capacities of at least 20.45 gigawatts. This represents twice as much electricity production, compared to the same period last year, Greenpeace said.

The NGO believes that by approving the construction of new coal-fired power plants, the Chinese government is fuelling fears that it could reverse its environmental goals, such as achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. Some of the new projects come from provinces that suffered power shortages last year as a result of heat waves. Other regions, notably in southwestern China, have had to reduce their hydropower production because of record droughts.

It all looks like a vicious circle, Greenpeace believes. According to the NGO, running coal-fired power plants to power air conditioners in the summer produces more emissions, which ultimately accelerates the rise in temperatures.

Read also China wants to increase its coal production to ensure its energy security

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