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

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

July 10, 2026
Australia and India have formalised a broadened energy partnership that spans renewable energy deployment, supply chain resilience, critical minerals, rooftop solar training and uranium exports.
July 9, 2026
The latest Silicon Industry Branch figures indicate continued weakness in the Chinese polysilicon market this week, though the decline slowed markedly.
Sponsored
July 7, 2026
Sunpro Power discusses its new back-contact PV modules and why it is branching out into the battery storage business.
July 7, 2026
Chinese authorities have issued new national standards governing the energy and conversion efficiencies of PV modules, polysilicon production and inverters.
July 2, 2026
India's MNRE has urged the power regulator to retain separate 'Deviation Settlement Mechanism' rules for solar and wind projects to protect them against increased financial risks.
July 1, 2026
A 1GW concentrated solar-PV hybrid complex built by China Three Gorges Corporation in Hami, Xinjiang has completed commissioning and entered commercial trial operation.

Upcoming Events

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
Solar Media Events
April 20, 2027
Istanbul, Türkiye