China trials wind and solar certificate scheme in move away from feed-in tariffs

February 3, 2017
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email
The scheme is intended to reduce the volume of FiT payments. Source: United PV.

China will trial a green energy certificate trading scheme as it looks to reduce its exposure to feed-in tariff (FiT) payments.

The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has revealed that a nationwide pilot will begin in 2018 for onshore wind and solar projects only. A green electricity certificate will be generated for each MWh of electricity produced. These will then be auctioned with payment replacing any FiT payments.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

The NDRC said the new voluntary system would “help promote the efficient use of clean energy and reduce direct subsidies” to the benefit of the national economy.

The certificates will then act as proof of green electricity consumption for the buyer. Beijing will encourage government bodies, private companies, institutions and individuals to voluntarily subscribe to clean power use.

Grid utility companies would oversee the scheme.

Read Next

March 27, 2026
Two module production facilities in China have been awarded the first Supply Traceability Standard certifications by Europe’s Solar Stewardship Initiative (SSI).
March 27, 2026
Australia's DCCEEW has launched an approach-to-market seeking an administrator to deliver the National Solar Panel Recycling Pilot.
March 26, 2026
More than 70% of global solar manufacturing facilities exhibited “major” or “critical” defects in 2025, according to a new report from Intertek CEA.
March 25, 2026
TCL Zhonghuan has reported a 2025 loss alongside a raft of executive changes as its operating revenue rose slightly year-on-year.
March 24, 2026
The 'new shape of solar' in the US residential sector is one driven by flexible private financing, according to Aurora Solar.
March 23, 2026
PV recycling capacity in Europe is lagging behind forecast waste volumes over the coming decades, according to a new study.

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA
Solar Media Events
October 13, 2026
San Francisco Bay Area, USA
Solar Media Events
November 3, 2026
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
November 24, 2026
Warsaw, Poland