China is accelerating the development of concentrated solar power (CSP), targeting around 15 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity by 2030 as it seeks to expand renewable energy options and improve electricity supply reliability.
The target is equivalent to the capacity of approximately 15 nuclear reactors rated at 1 GW each. The technology uses mirrors to concentrate sunlight and generate heat, which produces steam to drive turbines and generate electricity.
According to a report, China is pushing to establish solar thermal power as a complement to solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy. Unlike conventional solar panels, CSP plants can incorporate thermal energy storage, allowing electricity generation to continue after sunset.
China’s National Development and Reform Commission and National Energy Administration outlined the 15GW target in a policy roadmap issued in December 2025.
The plan aims to expand project deployment, strengthen domestic technology and equipment manufacturing, and bring electricity costs closer to those of coal-fired power generation.
