The study Accelerating Innovation in China’s Solar, Wind and Energy Storage Sectors explores the potential of green innovation to enhance growth in China.
Green innovation can become a new driver of growth. It can spur economic growth by (a) enhancing productivity in traditional industries by reducing the energy use and lessening the environmental impact; (b) expanding new green industries, such as renewable energy, clean cars, and waste management; and (c) leapfrogging current technology to give rise to new industries. The study analyzes a few specific sectors in which China has varying levels of advancement: wind, solar, and energy storage.
The government plays an essential role in establishing a conducive environment for green innovation. Given the high fixed costs associated, green sectors are even more dependent on the public sectors and favorable regulatory regimes. The recommendations provided in in this study aim to provide China with more comprehensive support for select green sectors.