Zero: The Climate Race Have China’s emissions finally peaked?
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Jun 19, 2025 
Lauri Myllyvirta, co-founder of the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air and an expert on China's climate and energy, discusses the pivotal moment of China's emissions possibly peaking. He highlights the surge in renewable energy and electrification in transport. Myllyvirta also dives into concerns about the impact of the US-China trade war on climate strategies. Additionally, he examines how China's transition from manufacturing to household consumption could reshape its emissions trajectory amidst economic changes.
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Reliability of China's Emissions Data
- China's statistical data quality has improved and is better than many emerging economies, though some manipulation exists due to target pressures.
- Electricity statistics are reliable indicators and currently show little distortion due to no pressure to report emissions declines.
Massive Renewable Additions Power Down Emissions
- China adds over 300 gigawatts of wind and solar annually, exceeding total U.S. solar capacity.
- These clean energy additions cover 5% of China's electricity demand yearly, matching average demand growth and enabling emissions decline.
Electrification and Construction Slowdown Lower Emissions
- China's emissions decline is driven by electrification across transport, industry, and buildings plus a construction sector slowdown.
- Cement production has dropped over 20% since 2021, greatly reducing related emissions.