Blue energy in China: exploring the prospects and development path for marine renewable energy industries

Abstract

Marine renewable energy has the characteristics of green and clean, wide distribution, nearby consumption, accurate prediction, and customization on demand. It can provide green energy solutions according to the needs of islands, ocean economic development, and energy consumption of offshore equipment. China has an excellent marine renewable energy resource. Facing great pressure on climate change and energy crisis, the Chinese Government has been showing a strong commitment to marine renewable energy. In this paper, we describe the resources distribution and technology status of marine renewable energy, analyse marine renewable energy strategies in China, and assessment and advices are given for each energy categories. This paper provides an overview of marine renewable energy industries, technology, policy, development trend, structure of industrial chains, challenges, opportunities in China, and provides recommendations for the development of marine renewable energy.