Generators with more than 5 GW of capacity will be required to source some 5% of their generation from renewables by 2010, with the figure set to rise to 20% by 2020, according to comments attributed to Zhang Guobao, vice-minister of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

Hydro and nuclear sources will not be on the list of approved sources, leaving wind generation a major focus for the country’s renewable ambitions.

Around 15 companies are expected to be affected by the decision, which follows the announcement of a national15% renewable target by 2020, compared with 7% now.