From Shanxi, for cleaner, greener energy

A local contribution to climate diplomacy

By Wang Fan

Today, the global energy landscape is evolving from one dominated by resources to a new configuration shaped jointly by resources, technology, supply routes, rules and resilience. Amid this transformation, energy cooperation is both a stabilizer in times of tension and a new arena for competition among major powers.

China has charted its own path toward energy independence based on its national resource endowment. Faced with the reality of being rich in coal but relatively short of oil and gas, China has not only achieved its renewable energy capacity targets ahead of schedule, but also, by the end of July 2026, seen installed solar power capacity surpass coal-fired power capacity for the first time.

From political leaders in various countries eager to test-drive Chinese new energy vehicles to China's promotion of green infrastructure in countries along the Belt and Road, these developments show that China is offering the Global South new approaches — moving from simply exporting equipment and products to jointly building capabilities.

As one of China's major comprehensive energy bases, Shanxi should not remain defined solely as a major coal-producing province.

Instead, it should take the initiative to become part of China's broader energy diplomacy and build itself into an international showcase for China's energy transition.

First, Shanxi should serve as a demonstration ground for the clean and efficient use of traditional energy. Coal remains an important cornerstone of China's energy security. Building on its existing industrial strengths, Shanxi should develop internationally advanced demonstration projects in areas such as the clean conversion of coal and the flexible transformation of coal-fired power plants. These projects can showcase to the world the technological capabilities and sense of responsibility of a major traditional energy producer as it makes a steady transition toward a cleaner energy system.

Second, Shanxi can become a source of innovation for the entire new-energy industrial chain. Shanxi has already built a solid foundation in areas such as photovoltaics, hydrogen energy and energy storage.

Its efforts in mine ecological restoration and the development of photovoltaic bases in coal-mining subsidence areas could serve as platforms for international exchanges.

Third, Shanxi should serve as a supporting hub for the development of a Green Belt and Road.

Drawing on its strong capabilities in energy equipment manufacturing, engineering construction and technical talent, Shanxi should encourage local enterprises to go global together and participate in energy infrastructure projects in Belt and Road partner countries.

By sharing Shanxi's transition experience, applicable technologies and standards with the Global South, the province can make a distinctive contribution — a Shanxi contribution — to China's climate diplomacy.

The author is former president of China Foreign Affairs University. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.