Clean Energy Transition Workshop: Re-purposing Coal Plants
China’s clean-energy transition is vital to its sustainable development and its contribution to global climate actions. The country’s “30–60” dual carbon goals signal a commitment to not only expand renewables but also to reengineer the power system to handle more variable energy sources and to retire or decarbonise coal. However, coal still provides about 60% of China’s electricity, and in 2024 China added 70% (30.5 GW) of new global coal capacity.1 Repowering retired coal plants—an option often overlooked in top down energy models—means repurposing decommissioned assets for economically viable, sustainable uses.
Repower Initiative
Repower proposes replacing coal boilers with zero carbon heat sources (nuclear, advanced geothermal, flexible storage) to repower existing plants.23 Since 2019, Repower has partnered with stakeholders in Poland, Indonesia and Korea. In China, it works with partners to develop a Repower Score website (which has assessed 10,000+ coal units for Repowering suitability) and case studies.
Workshop Goal
In this workshop we shared evidence-based options and gather feedback from participating experts, helping policymakers make informed decisions and accelerating China’s clean energy transition.
Key discussion topics
- What are the major technology solutions for alternative use of coal plants? Feasibility in China, R&D needs?
- Policy incentives? Considerations include change needed in regulatory and management framework
- Economic viability and social impacts
