German Economy Minister Robert Habeck emphasized China’s indispensable role in achieving global climate goals during a visit to the country.
He stressed the need for China to transition away from its heavy reliance on coal, which currently accounts for nearly 60% of its electricity supply.
China’s Coal Production and Energy Security Concerns
Habeck revealed that Chinese officials informed him of their plans to expand coal production due to energy security concerns. This comes in the wake of the European energy crisis triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, highlighting the vulnerabilities of relying on fossil fuels.
Collaboration as the Key to Climate Success
Despite the challenges, Habeck emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation with China. He stated that achieving global climate targets would be impossible without China’s active participation in reducing emissions.
The Challenge of Integrating Renewable Energy
While acknowledging China’s awareness of the negative impact of CO2 emissions, Habeck addressed the difficulty of integrating variable energy sources like wind and solar into an energy system designed for more predictable fuels. He highlighted the need for innovative solutions to ensure a smooth transition.
Economic Growth and Climate Action: Not Opposites
Habeck challenged the notion that economic growth and climate action are mutually exclusive. He suggested that transitioning to a climate-neutral economy not only benefits the environment but also creates new opportunities for wealth and growth. He pointed to the expansion of China’s power grid and the use of battery storage as potential solutions to reduce the need for coal-fired power plants while meeting China’s growing energy demands.