German Economic Affairs Minister Robert Habeck emphasized the critical role of China in achieving global climate goals, noting that the country must transition away from coal, which currently makes up nearly 60 percent of its electricity supply. Habeck highlighted China’s expansion of coal production for security reasons and the need to find a safe alternative to this fossil fuel. He also stressed the importance of cooperation with China in addressing climate change, stating that without China’s participation, it would be challenging to meet climate targets worldwide.
Habeck acknowledged the challenges of integrating variable forms of energy such as wind and solar into a system designed for more predictable fuels. He suggested that simply increasing capacities was not the most efficient approach and advocated for the expansion of renewable energy sources, such as photothermal power. Despite China’s continued expansion of coal production, the country also added a significant amount of new renewable energy capacity in 2023, demonstrating its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Habeck proposed solutions such as expanding the power grid and utilizing batteries for energy storage to reduce the dependence on coal-fired power plants. He emphasized that economic growth and climate action were not mutually exclusive, arguing that transitioning to a climate-neutral economy could lead to new opportunities for wealth and growth. By working together with China and embracing innovative energy solutions, Habeck believes that it is possible to achieve a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system.