China’s National Development & Reform Commission (NDRC) has written a draft policy that would increase the renewable energy target from 20% to 35% by 2030.

For a long time, it has seemed that the Chinese 2030 renewable energy target of 20% was incredibly low given the amount of renewable energy it has been adding. For example, in 2017, China installed more than 52 gigawatts (GW) of solar, which is about as much as has been installed in the United States since … forever, according to Cleantechnica.com.

If the increase becomes law, it would certainly be tremendous news — its effect could be wide ranging. However, it’s going to take a long time to sort out what is really going on. One of the reasons this target is being implemented is because the national government seems to be having difficulty slowing the construction of coal power plants. Reporting on emissions, coal consumption, etc., has been all over the map, and it appears that will continue. However, it is clear that renewable energy is growing and simultaneously dropping in price.

The Guardian and the China South Morning are both reporting that satellite photos show unapproved coal power plant construction continuing. Thankfully, the newly proposed Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards for 2030 will have some teeth. Companies that do not meet the standards will be fined and the proceeds will be used to cover the renewable energy subsidies.