China’s growing appetite for coal threatens its Paris pledge

Between January 2018 and June 2019, China increased its coal power capacity by 42.9 gigawatts, enough to power 31 million homes, while the rest of the world reduced its capacity by 8.1 gigawatts. To meet its Paris Agreement goals, China needs to cut its coal capacity by over 40% by 2030. Currently, China is constructing 121.3 gigawatts of coal plants and may revive 26.4 gigawatts of suspended projects, totaling 147.7 gigawatts, nearly matching the EU's capacity. Additionally, China finances a quarter of global coal projects in countries like South Africa, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

How much did China increase its coal power capacity between January 2018 and June 2019?

• 150 gigawatts

• 31 million gigawatts

• 42.9 gigawatts

• 8.1 gigawatts

What was the global trend in coal capacity during the same period when China increased its capacity?

• Global coal capacity increased by 31 million gigawatts

• Global coal capacity remained the same

• Global coal capacity decreased by 8.1 gigawatts

• Global coal capacity increased by 42.9 gigawatts

To meet its Paris climate agreement goals, by how much does China need to reduce its coal capacity?

• By 20%

• By 40%

• By 80%

• By 60%

What is the total coal power capacity China is constructing and reviving?

• 121.3 gigawatts

• 150 gigawatts

• 26.4 gigawatts

• 147.7 gigawatts

Which countries are mentioned as recipients of China's coal project financing?

• Australia, New Zealand, and Japan

• India, Brazil, and Russia

• South Africa, Pakistan, and Bangladesh

• USA, Canada, and Mexico