Did you know that a prominent political figure recently claimed China doesn't actually use wind power, despite the nation hosting the world's largest wind farm? This statement has sparked quite a debate! Let's dive into what was said and what the reality looks like.
During a recent address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, a significant political leader, Donald Trump, launched into strong criticisms of wind energy. He went as far as to label countries that purchase wind turbines as "stupid." This isn't the first time he's voiced such opinions; he's previously called green energy initiatives "the scam of the century," all while the U.S. remains a leading producer of fossil fuels. In fact, his administration even suspended leases for U.S. offshore wind projects, citing national security concerns, and is currently involved in a legal dispute with a Danish energy firm.
So, what exactly did he say about wind energy at Davos?
While speaking at the forum, Trump asserted that China manufactures "almost all" of the world's wind turbines, which he often refers to as "windmills." He then expressed surprise, stating, "I haven’t been able to find any windfarms in China." He went on to suggest that China is incredibly shrewd, making these turbines and then selling them to other nations for a "fortune," implying that these buyer countries are "stupid" because they don't utilize them themselves.
How did China respond to these claims?
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson Guo Jiakun, swiftly countered these assertions. At a press conference, he emphasized that "China’s efforts to tackle climate change and promote the development and application of renewable energy in the world are obvious to all." He further stated that as a "responsible developing country," China is keen to collaborate with all parties to advance global green and low-carbon transformations.
Is China really ignoring green energy?
Contrary to the claims, data from the energy think tank Ember reveals a different picture. In 2024, China's wind power generation accounted for 40 percent of the global total, even with an increase in fossil fuel generation. Even more impressively, in 2025, wind and solar power combined generated over a quarter (26 percent) of China's electricity in April, setting a new record. This surge in renewables has coincided with a 3.6 percent year-on-year decline in fossil fuel generation during the first four months of 2025.
Analysis from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) suggests that China is entering a phase of "relative decoupling." This means their economic growth is becoming less tied to rising emissions. Between 2015 and 2023, while China's GDP grew by over 50 percent, its consumption-based emissions only rose by 24 percent. The report indicates that emissions from power generation and transport sectors may have already peaked.
But here's where it gets truly remarkable: China is leading the charge in renewable development. They have a staggering 180 GW of solar and 159 GW of wind power projects currently under construction. This is nearly double the capacity being built by the rest of the world combined! According to Global Energy Monitor, this is enough to power all of South Korea.
The World's Largest Wind Farm: A Visible Marvel
Despite the assertion that wind farms are hard to find in China, the country is home to the world's largest wind farm, so massive it's visible from space! Located in the western Gansu region, the Gansu Wind Farm began construction in 2009 and saw its first phase completed just a year later. It already boasts over 7,000 turbines and, once fully completed, is projected to have an installed capacity of 20 GW – enough to power approximately 15 million homes.
And this is the part most people miss... While the political rhetoric might focus on who is or isn't using wind power, the data clearly shows China is not only a major manufacturer but also a significant deployer and user of wind energy. The sheer scale of their renewable projects is undeniable.
What do you think? Does China's massive investment in wind power surprise you, given the recent claims? Are you concerned about the global reliance on fossil fuels, or do you believe there's a balanced approach to energy transition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
