Dual carbon goals call for systematic actions

Editor's note: With less than half a year remaining before the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), China is on track to exceed its nonfossil energy consumption targets. The share of electricity in end-use energy consumption has already risen to around 30 percent. Zhou Dadi, former director of the Energy Research Institute of the National Development and Reform Commission, spoke to the 21st Century Business Herald about the achievements of the 14th Five-Year Plan in energy transition as well as the priorities in the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30). Below are excerpts from the interview. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

The policy framework of the 15th Five-Year Plan will continue to adhere to the core vision of the dual carbon goals. China aims to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030. The success of its energy transition hinges on whether clean energy can build cost advantages and market competitiveness. Only if there is an economically viable low-carbon energy supply system can fossil fuels be genuinely replaced.

China has made remarkable progress in new energy development, but coal consumption remains a transitional challenge due to its economic viability.