China establishes 1st national renewable energy think tank

BEIJING – China has established its first national think tank to conduct research, and to develop programs and policies on renewable energy.

The China National Renewable Energy Center (CNREC) which was launched on Thursday, will be responsible for researching and promoting programs and policies in renewable energy development, as well as for drafting industrial standards and carrying out international cooperative programs.

"In China, developing policies and strategies for renewable energy is a complex task because government leaders have to weigh all aspects to ensure that it will benefit the entire country," said Wang Zhongying, director of the new center. "That is not to say that our government doesn't have the courage to make policy, rather, a strong think tank can provide solid research to support policy-makers."

The center was established by the National Energy Bureau with the support of the National Development and Reform Commission. It is also a result of cooperative efforts between China and Denmark, which established a Renewable Development Program in 2009. Denmark provided both financial and technological support for the center.

Friis Arnen Petersen, ambassador of Denmark to China, said the opening of CNREC is not only a breakthrough in China's road towards green growth, but also a milestone in cooperation between China and Denmark in renewable energy.