China Launches Construction of National Zero-Carbon Factories and Computing Facilities

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has launched a national initiative to construct zero-carbon factories and related computing facilities. This program aims to promote industrial emission reductions and the transition to cleaner energy sources.

By selecting and supporting enterprises that meet stringent emission reduction criteria and commit to ambitious goals, the MIIT seeks to establish benchmarks for industrial sustainability. The initiative requires participating entities to continuously lower their carbon dioxide emissions, striving for near-zero levels through technological innovation and process optimization.

Key targets by 2030 include reducing carbon emissions per unit of energy consumption to no more than 0.2 tons of CO2 per ton of standard coal. Furthermore, the proportion of non-fossil energy consumption must reach at least 95%. For computing facilities, specific requirements focus on electricity consumption.

The ministry previously issued guidance outlining a phased approach starting in 2026. The objective is to cultivate zero-carbon operations across various sectors, including automotive, lithium batteries, solar power, and electronics, while also exploring decarbonization pathways for traditional high-energy-consuming industries like steel and chemicals.