China’s fast-growing clean energy sector is drawing global attention after top UN climate official Simon Stiell praised the country’s role in accelerating the global energy transition during a speech in Beijing.

Speaking at Tsinghua University on May 14, Simon Stiell said China’s investments in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and climate technology are helping reshape global energy markets. He said China’s clean energy investment crossed $625 billion in 2024 and continues to grow.

China’s Renewable Energy Growth Gains Global Attention

He said China has become a major force in climate multilateralism since the 2015 Paris Agreement. He highlighted the country’s rapid expansion in solar, wind, and electric vehicle production. According to the remarks, China met its 2030 wind and solar targets six years ahead of schedule. Electric vehicles also made up around 50% of new car sales, exceeding earlier projections.

The UN climate chief pointed to Chinese battery maker CATL and its latest electric vehicle battery technology as an example of innovation influencing the global transport industry.

He also said Chinese renewable technologies are supporting energy transitions in developing countries through South-South cooperation and infrastructure investments linked to the Belt and Road Initiative.

Fossil Fuel Price Volatility Raises Energy Security Concerns

The speech came as rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions continue to impact global energy markets. Stiell warned that dependence on fossil fuels creates economic instability and increases energy security risks. He said renewable energy offers countries greater price stability and long-term economic resilience.

He noted that China’s electric vehicle growth could save the country more than $28 billion in oil import costs this year.

Focus Turns Toward COP31 Climate Goals

He urged countries to strengthen climate cooperation ahead of COP31 in Türkiye later this year. He called for increased investment in renewable energy grids, methane reduction, climate-resilient infrastructure, and food security systems.