Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

China Boosts Clean Energy on Tibetan Plateau Amid Concerns

10/11/2025

49 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

China expands clean energy on the Tibetan Plateau, led by the Talatan Solar Park, planning a tenfold capacity increase within three years.
The project is part of a plan to cut fossil fuels and boost renewables.
China is constructing five hydropower dams on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, sparking concerns in India about water supply.
Qinghai Province is attracting data centers because electricity costs are about 40% cheaper than coal power.

History

Historical Context

The Gonghe Talatan Solar Park in Qinghai, China, expanded in 2023, exemplifying China's commitment to renewable energy, aiming for a tenfold increase in solar capacity. This initiative aligns with its 2014 pledge to cut carbon emissions by 40-45% by 2020. The park, now the world's largest at 15,600 MW, highlights a significant energy shift amid regional water supply concerns linked to hydropower dams on the Yarlung Tsangpo River.

1 of 2

Story summary

China expands clean energy on the Tibetan Plateau, led by the Talatan Solar Park, planning a tenfold capacity increase within three years.
The project is part of a plan to cut fossil fuels and boost renewables.
China is constructing five hydropower dams on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, sparking concerns in India about water supply.
Qinghai Province is attracting data centers because electricity costs are about 40% cheaper than coal power.

1 / 2