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Integrating Distributed Energy Resources in China
…other country in the world, the People’s Republic of China (hereafter, “China”) is witnessing rapid growth in distributed energy resources (DERs), including rooftop solar photovoltaics, battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. As China advances towards its carbon peaking and neutrality goals, these resources offer a unique opportunity to support a more flexible, efficient and resilient power system, provided their integration is well-managed.This report analyses recent trends in DER deployment across China and highlights the emerging challenges their growth poses for power system planning and operation, calling for renewed attention to distribution grids. It puts China’s…
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China’s Official Energy Finance in Emerging and Developing Economies
…through equity investments or guarantees. This shift suggests a move towards a more competitive – yet still state-directed – model of international energy engagement.These changes reflect a financing system adapting to new domestic and global circumstances rather than a withdrawal from China’s overseas energy activity. For clean energy deployment in particular, the evolving pattern presents both opportunities – including expanded equity participation and greater risk-sharing – and challenges linked to uneven availability of concessional or long-tenor finance.This report maps and analyses these changes through an energy sector-level dataset covering 2015 to 2024. It explores how China’s…
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Kenya 2024
Energy Policy Review Government action is pivotal in building secure, inclusive and sustainable energy systems. Energy policy is critical not just for the energy sector but also for meeting environmental, economic and social goals. Governments need to respond to national specific needs, adapt to regional contexts, and help address global challenges. In this context, the International Energy Agency (IEA) conducts Energy Policy Reviews to support governments in developing more impactful energy and climate policies.This Energy Policy Review of Kenya was prepared in collaboration between the government of Kenya and the IEA, whose strong partnership achieved an important milestone in…
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Integrating Variable Renewable Energy in Kenya
…variable renewable energy (VRE). The report identifies Kenya’s system to be operating in Phase 3 of the IEA’s VRE integration framework, where variability increasingly influences system operations. It explores the key challenges that lie ahead and how three mutually reinforcing pillars - open access, flexibility and storage, and ancillary services - can support the development of a reliable, secure and sustainable electricity system. The analysis highlights that increasing generation capacity alone will not be sufficient to address existing and emerging system pressures. Adapting market, regulatory and operational frameworks will be equally important to deliver a reliable and affordable electricity system…
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Energy Efficiency in China’s Buildings Sector
…progress in achieving them. Regulation for new buildings in China, such as building codes, is relatively strong. However, as the rate of construction is slowing, policy priorities are shifting towards retrofitting existing buildings. Here, the IEA estimates that through strong policy action and best-in-class technology, China could reduce energy consumption by up to 65% in buildings constructed between 1995 and 2010, representing energy savings of over 8 000 Petajoules.The report includes examples from across China and the world on leading regulatory instruments, financial incentives, and information-based tools that can drive energy efficiency in the buildings sector.
