Localizing the low-carbon transition: a tale of three Chinese cities

The system of 'setting targets centrally, meeting targets locally' is instrumental to China's fast decarbonization in the 2010s. This chapter examines how Chinese subnational authorities have addressed the challenges of mitigation and low-carbon transitions (MLCT). Four key questions are explored in the context of three Chinese cities including Shanghai, Qingdao, and Hangzhou. These include the political rationalities manifested, the governing techniques and technologies (GTTs) deployed, ways of financing their MLCT, and the economic and MLCT outcomes. This investigation uncovers a high level of diversity and complexity in both the challenges encountered, most importantly the tension between economic development and MLCT, and the carbon governmentalities developed and adopted in these cities. It underscores the critical importance of subnational authorities and their capacity building in carbon government in China. It also suggests that MLCT has further strengthened the centre's power vis-a-vis localities through the Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction Target Responsibility System.