China has issued new guidelines to cut carbon emissions across heavy industry and digital infrastructure as it pushes toward its 2030 climate targets, according to a policy document released by the State Council of China and the Communist Party leadership.
The report said the plan targets sectors such as steel, chemicals and data centres, with a focus on improving energy efficiency and promoting greener technologies. Officials also called for upgrades in AI-driven infrastructure to reduce power consumption as demand rises.
Explainer: How China is managing the rising energy demand from data centres | @yuanyeahyuan #CBarchive
— Carbon Brief (@CarbonBrief) April 22, 2026
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According to the National Development and Reform Commission, the measures aim to balance emissions reduction with energy security, especially as global oil markets remain volatile due to the Iran conflict.
Analysts cited in the report said implementation will be key, particularly at the local level. Despite growth in renewables, China remains reliant on coal, which still dominates its energy mix.
The report said rising energy demand from AI could complicate Beijing’s climate ambitions.
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