China is expanding coal power at the same time it is breaking records in renewable energy, according to a new report.

The study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) and Global Energy Monitor (GEM) shows that 21 gigawatts (GW) of coal capacity were added in the first half of 2025 — the largest growth in nearly a decade. Another 46 GW of plants are under construction, with proposals for an additional 75 GW moving forward.

The trend threatens China’s target of reaching peak carbon emissions before 2030. Coal still supplies about half of the country’s electricity, even though its share has dropped sharply since 2016.

On the other hand, renewable power is expanding at record speed. China installed 212 GW of solar capacity between January and June — more than the total solar power capacity of the United States last year. Together with new wind, nuclear, and hydro projects, the country’s clean energy growth this year could cover all of its rising electricity demand.

Experts warn that the continued push for coal may slow the energy transition. Many projects approved during past power shortages are still being built, while only 1 GW of coal plants was retired in the first half of this year — far short of the 30 GW closure target for 2020–2025.

China is expected to outline new energy and climate goals in its upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), and announce its 2035 climate commitments ahead of COP30 later this year.