After substantial government incentives were introduced in 2011, China's solar power market grew dramatically: the country became the world's leading installer of photovoltaics in 2013.
Installed capacity of the solar PV power in China (1990–2009). To encourage the development of renewable energy such as solar PV power, China has promulgated a series of laws, regulations and financial incentive policies, and has invested significant funds in PV power generation projects.
How will Chinese government support the development of solar PV power industry?
The Chinese government has formulated and implemented a series of medium and long-term development plans to support the progress of the solar PV power industry. The planning objectives are gradually changing from targets for installed capacity to the development of a clean industry.
China's pivotal role in solar energy expansion is underscored by its massive investment and robust government support. Leading the world in solar production, China hosts several of the largest solar farms globally, including the notable Tengger Desert Solar Park, capable of powering 600,000 homes.
Most of China's solar power is generated within its western provinces and is transferred to other regions of the country. In 2011, China owned the largest solar power plant in the world at the time, the Huanghe Hydropower Golmud Solar Park, which had a photovoltaic capacity of 200 MW.
In order to develop economically by sustaining its own energy demand without harming the environment, the Chinese government has the incentive to support the development of solar power generation. China started research on solar cells in 1958, which were first applied on the satellite Dongfanghong no. 2 in 1971.
In the first nine months of 2017, China saw 43 GW of solar energy installed in the first nine months of the year and saw a total of 52.8 GW of solar energy installed for the entire year. 2017 is currently the year with the largest addition of solar energy capacity in China.