China improves rural solar power installation regulations

China is working to improve the use of solar power in rural areas. The country's energy regulator wants to promote a healthy and organized growth in small-scale solar energy. They aim to prevent monopolies and bad practices regarding installations. In recent years, many rural homes have added rooftop solar panels. However, connecting this energy to the larger power system has been difficult. Local authorities cannot pressure farmers into buying extra products, like special equipment or insurance, when they install solar panels. This rule aims to avoid adding unnecessary costs for farmers. To make it easier for solar projects to succeed, the National Energy Administration (NEA) is encouraging simpler rules for getting approvals, building, and connecting to the power grid. They emphasize scientific planning, orderly development, and local energy use.