China’s Path to Decarbonization: From Presidential Rhetoric to the Energy Law

This thesis examines China decarbonization initiative announced in November 2020, widely known as the dual carbon goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. After providing an overview, the thesis analyzes how these goals are incorporated into Xi Jinping’s presidential rhetoric. A secondary focus is the study of the policies formulation and implementation process, with particular attention to the “1+N” framework and on China’s Energy Law. The thesis is structured into four sections. The first introduces the dual carbon goals, highlighting both their importance and the challenges that must be overcome to achieve the decarbonization targets. The second investigates the instrument use of these goals in Xi Jinping rhetoric. The third focuses on the policymaking process since their announcement, considering the central, regional and ministerial levels. Finally, the fourth section provides an overview of China’s first Energy Law (enacted on November 8, 2024, and enforced on January 1, 2025) and discusses its implications for the decarbonization of the energy sector.