China Briefing 19 March 2026: China joins nuclear pledge | Energy approach ‘vindicated’ | New ecological code
Why it matters: China's dual energy strategy signals a massive shift, impacting global climate targets and energy markets.
- China's 15th five-year plan places renewable energy "centre stage" and incorporates a new ecological code, with minimal changes from its draft, according to Jiemian and Carbon Brief.
- China Daily and Global Times assert that the plan demonstrates China's stable geopolitical force and commitment to global climate governance, contrasting with other nations' short-term promises.
- National Energy Administration head Wang Hongzhi emphasized the 2026-2030 period as critical for achieving carbon peak and building a new energy system, leveraging market reforms for fossil fuel replacement.
- China officially joined an international pledge to "triple global nuclear energy capacity between 2020 and 2050," with Vice-Premier Zhang Guoqing highlighting its importance for climate and energy security, as reported by Climate Home News.
China has solidified its commitment to renewable energy and a new ecological code in its 15th five-year plan, with state media touting its stability and global climate benefits. Concurrently, China endorsed an international pledge to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050, viewing it as crucial for both climate goals and energy security.
