China to establish national fund for low-carbon transition, boost green economy: draft govt work report

China is poised to establish a groundbreaking national fund dedicated to accelerating its transition toward a low-carbon economy, according to the draft government work report presented at the ongoing National People’s Congress session. This strategic initiative represents a cornerstone of the nation’s comprehensive strategy to cultivate sustainable economic growth while addressing climate commitments.

The newly proposed fund will specifically channel resources into developing cutting-edge green technologies and emerging sectors, with hydrogen power and green fuels identified as primary beneficiaries. This financial mechanism aims to catalyze innovation and scale up deployment of clean energy solutions across industrial sectors.

Beyond the fund establishment, the policy blueprint outlines a multi-faceted approach to environmental stewardship. The government plans to enhance existing green development policies while launching specialized initiatives targeting quality upgrades, cost reduction, and carbon emission cuts in key industries. The development of zero-carbon industrial parks and factories will receive prioritized support as demonstration projects.

While maintaining stringent oversight on energy-intensive and high-emission projects, China will accelerate the phase-out of obsolete production capacity. Concurrently, the nation will bolster research, development and implementation of advanced green technologies and equipment. The comprehensive strategy further includes improvements to total resource consumption control mechanisms, enhanced resource conservation systems, and expanded recycling programs for reusable materials.

The policy framework explicitly supports China’s dual climate objectives of achieving peak carbon emissions before 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060. Government authorities emphasize a balanced approach of “active yet prudent” advancement toward these targets.

Implementation will involve establishing a dual-control system managing both the total volume and intensity of carbon emissions. The government will also refine carbon emission statistics, accounting methodologies, and carbon footprint management protocols. Additional measures include expanding China’s national carbon trading market coverage and formulating a strategic outline to strengthen the energy sector’s resilience.

The transition plan acknowledges the interim role of fossil fuels, promoting their cleaner and more efficient utilization while accelerating construction of smart grid infrastructure. Development of novel energy storage technologies and broader adoption of green electricity will receive significant policy support to build a new electric power system fit for a low-carbon future.