Abstract: We comprehensively evaluate concentrated solar power (CSP) potential in China across four dimensions: geographical, technical, economic, and CO2 mitigation, and extend the analysis from panel to time-series through learning curves and scenario analysis. Evidently, China has substantial CSP potential, with 1.65 million km2 geographical and  142 , 888 TWh/yr  technical potential mainly concentrated in five provinces: Inner Mongolia, Xizang, Xinjiang, Gansu, and Qinghai. The weighted levelized cost of electricity of CSP in China is  0 . 6839 CNY/kWh , which is close to grid parity. Provinces should not uniformly progress. Qinghai and Gansu should act as the pioneers, whereas Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia serve as the backbone of the second tier. The grid connection of all ongoing and planned CSP projects is essential for substantial CSP development in China by 2030. In summary, despite the challenges posed by cost competition and evolving market conditions, with strategic advancements, the Chinese CSP industry is poised for a promising future.

Highlights

• China has a 1.65 million km2 geographical and 142,888 TWh/yr technical CSP potential.

• The weighted LCOE of CSP in China is 0.6839 CNY/kWh, which is close to grid parity.

• Qinghai, Gansu, should spearhead CSP in China, followed by Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia.

• The grid connection of all ongoing and planned projects is essential for CSP in China by 2030.

Source：Wang T, Wang K, Wang Y, et al. Mapping the concentrated solar power development in China: Navigating brief challenges and embracing a bright future[J]. Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments, 2025, 75: 104228. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seta.2025.104228