SWOT Analysis of Wind, Hydro, and Solar Energy Power Generation: Applications and Future Development in China
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: China is currently undergoing a transition in its energy structure, gradually reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing the proportion of clean energy sources. The government actively promotes the development of renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, while encouraging technological innovation to enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, China is exploring and promoting new energy technologies like nuclear and hydrogen power to establish a greener and low-carbon energy system in line with sustainable development goals. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the current status of wind, solar, and hydro energy in China using a SWOT analysis approach. It examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with each energy source, focusing particularly on their environmental impacts, technological hurdles, and resource distribution. Wind power stands out as an essential element within China's renewable energy mix due to its substantial potential for power generation capacity - ranking second globally. However, it confronts concerns regarding its environmental implications as well as output variability. Solar energy has advantages in directing solar power conversion and easy recycling; it exhibits promising prospects. But encounters conflicts related to land use and efficiency issues. Hydropower continues to be a major contributor; nevertheless, it poses ecological and social challenges. Furthermore, this paper scrutinizes China's leadership in renewable energy while offering recommendations for sustainable development and policy improvements that can facilitate its ongoing transition towards cleaner sources of power.
Author: Qiuchun Wang
Institution: Southwest Jiaotong University
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4406405446