China’s Wind Energy Sector Targets Doubling Turbine Installations Each Year

Beijing: China’s wind power industry has unveiled an ambitious plan to double annual turbine installations over the next five years, further cementing its position as the world’s leading producer of wind energy.

Industry officials announced that China aims to add at least 120 gigawatts (GW) of new wind capacity annually between 2026 and 2030, double the roughly 60GW per year it has averaged since 2020, according to the National Energy Administration.

The move is part of Beijing’s wider strategy to accelerate its carbon neutrality goals, which aim to peak emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2060.

Earlier this month, engineers in Beihai, Guangxi, completed construction of the world’s largest floating offshore wind turbine, a 16-megawatt system made entirely in China. The milestone underscores the country’s growing expertise in offshore wind and marine energy technologies.

China currently has 580GW of installed wind capacity and plans to reach 1,300GW by 2030. Officials say the expansion will help drive economic growth and strengthen the country’s clean energy leadership.

However, analysts note challenges ahead. Electricity pricing reforms have squeezed profits for new wind projects, particularly offshore ventures, prompting calls for stronger state incentives and policy support.

“Those are very ambitious targets,” said Chim Lee, senior analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit, noting that the new plan exceeds most international forecasts.

In 2024, China generated 3,460 billion kilowatt-hours of clean energy, up nearly 40% from 2021. By 2035, Beijing hopes to achieve 3,600GW of combined wind and solar capacity, with renewables supplying over 30% of its electricity.

For China, the message is clear: its wind sector isn’t just keeping pace, it’s driving the global energy transition.