China's solar thermal industry is undergoing a phase of rapid expansion, boasting an impressive annual compound growth rate of 11.7%—a figure that more than doubles the global average of 4.24%. The industry has achieved a remarkable localization rate for technical equipment, surpassing 95%. By the end of September 2025, China will have successfully constructed 21 solar thermal power stations, boasting a combined installed capacity of 1.57 million kilowatts. Additionally, 30 more stations are currently under construction, with a total installed capacity projected to reach 3.1 million kilowatts.

Driven by technological advancements and economies of scale, the cost of solar thermal projects has seen a significant reduction. The on-grid electricity price has plummeted from 1.15 yuan per kilowatt-hour to approximately 0.6 yuan per kilowatt-hour. China has not only mastered mainstream solar thermal power generation technologies but has also established a comprehensive industrial chain. This has led to fruitful outcomes in the research and application of cutting-edge technologies.

Companies like China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) are at the forefront of innovation. CGN, for instance, has developed a range of innovative products and secured 68 authorized patents. The CGN Delingha project, in particular, has amassed invaluable full-cycle experience, expedited the construction of key projects, and paved the way for the international expansion of solar thermal technology.

The establishment of the Solar Thermal Branch within the China Electricity Council signifies a new chapter in the industry's evolution. Industry experts predict that by 2030, the global installed capacity of solar thermal power generation will soar to 22.4 million kilowatts. By 2050, it is anticipated that approximately 10% of the world's electricity will be generated from solar thermal sources.