A new analysis by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air finds that inflexible grid management in China is leading to the curtailment of wind and solar power despite rising energy demand.
China’s energy demand increased in the first quarter of 2026. Instead of using its expanding wind and solar capacity to meet this demand, the country turned to fossil fuels, according to the report. The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air analysis, published for Carbon Brief on June 4, stated that the curtailment of renewables stems from reliance on coal for baseload power. It noted that this approach could otherwise have supplied electricity equivalent to France’s needs. The report added that the Strait of Hormuz crisis has increased China’s focus on energy security through clean energy. However, the electricity system is failing to keep up, leaving the country more exposed by raising demand for coal and gas.