China’s massive Kubuqi Desert solar farm, over 100 sq km, powers cities despite challenges, reflecting its rapid renewable growth in 2025.

A vast solar array in China’s Kubuqi Desert, spanning over 100 square kilometers and visible from space, symbolizes the country’s aggressive push toward renewable energy and carbon neutrality by 2060. Despite challenges like sandstorms, heat, and water scarcity, advanced technologies help maintain efficiency. The electricity powers distant cities, though grid limitations cause transmission losses. China installed more solar capacity in early 2025 than the entire U.S. had by the end of 2024. While coal remains a major energy source, with new plants added in 2025, local economies have shifted, with former coal workers embracing tourism through desert adventures. Experts say solar’s environmental risks are minor compared to fossil fuels.