China emerges as key driver of global concentrated solar power capacity expansion

Xining hosted the 2026 Qinghai Clean Energy Development Forum on 16 July. Figures released by the China Electricity Council during the event show that, by the end of June 2026, 24 concentrated solar power (CSP) projects have been completed and put into operation nationwide, with a combined installed capacity of 2.1 gigawatts, placing China second in the global rankings. Another 26 projects remain under construction, representing a further 3.2 gigawatts of capacity. China is taking shape as a vital contributor to new global CSP installations.

Technological innovation underpins advances across the domestic CSP sector. The country holds internationally leading positions in fourth-generation concentrated solar power technology. It has secured mastery over mainstream technical routes including tower, parabolic trough and Fresnel systems, and built one of the world’s most complete industrial chains for concentrated solar power. Domestic manufacturing accounts for more than 95 per cent of relevant technical equipment. Core materials and hardware covering high-temperature heat absorption, thermal storage and solar collection have achieved independent development, while operational and maintenance expertise for power stations keeps improving.

Policy frameworks will guide sustained sector rollout. In December 2025, the National Development and Reform Commission together with the National Energy Administration issued guidance documents supporting scaled-up development for concentrated solar power. The policy sets a target for total national CSP installed capacity to reach roughly 15 gigawatts by 2030.

Concentrated solar power stands out among renewable energy sources thanks to its built-in thermal storage capability, which delivers stable, dispatchable power output. Growing deployment will add flexible supply capacity to support the evolution of new power systems integrating large volumes of wind and photovoltaic generation. Industry participants will continue refining manufacturing processes and operational solutions to lower project costs and improve commercial viability.

International energy stakeholders track progress in China’s CSP sector, as mature supply chains and proven technical solutions create opportunities for cross-border collaboration on low-carbon energy infrastructure. New project pipelines and iterative technology upgrades will shape the pace of capacity additions over the coming years.