Development of renewable energy in Australia and China: A comparison of policies and status

• Published in: Renewable energy 2016-01, Vol.85, p.1044-1051
• Main Authors: Hua, Yaping, Oliphant, Monica, Hu, Eric Jing
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Australia; China; Governance; Mechanisms; Policy; Renewable energy
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2015.07.060

Both developed and developing countries have committed to reduce their emissions through the increased use of renewable energy. This paper aims to compare renewable energy deployment in developed and developing countries represented by Australia and China. The paper firstly argues the validity of comparison of renewable energy deployment in Australia and China. Then, the governance structures in both countries are compared; the paper also compares management mechanisms in terms of funding and incentive support, renewable energy grid-connection and coordination between different levels of governments in both countries. Moreover, the current status of renewable energy development in two countries is summarized. From the study, it can be concluded both countries have set a Renewable Energy Target and promulgated legislation and regulations to enlarge the scale of renewable energy; China shows a stronger commitment to renewable energy than Australia. However, Renewable Energy Certificate mechanism is implemented more effectively in Australia than in China. The paper suggests: augmenting and rebuilding the electricity network and strengthening coordination between different levels of governments for both countries; enhancing manufacturing facilities and incentives for the solar and wind industry for Australia, while developing more-detailed implementation legislation and renewable power quota system for China. •Implementing the use of renewable energy is a viable option for developed and developing countries.•Both Australia and China have set Renewable Energy Target and introduced legislation and regulations.•Australia's legislation and regulations are implemented more effectively than China's.•China shows a stronger commitment to renewable energy than Australia.•Both countries still have a very low penetration of non-hydro renewable energy in their primary energy mix.