China-African Union (AU) renewable energy cooperation is an important practice of the South–South Cooperation. Renewable energy is developing rapidly in African Union, but traditional energy resources still dominate. China’s support to the AU in renewable energy equipment trade and industrial investment has been significant. Based on the evolutionary game theory, the article explores the dynamic evolution process and key influencing factors of cooperation between the two sides, and identifies four cooperation strategy scenarios. It is found that cooperation costs, expected benefits and initial willingness are the core factors affecting bilateral cooperation. Improving the willingness of both sides to cooperate, reducing the cost of China-AU cooperation and ensuring higher benefit gains are effective paths to promote China-AU renewable energy cooperation. Based on the above findings, this article puts forward suggestions concerning the construction of cooperation framework, technical and financial support, and standard co-construction, which provide reference for further deepening China-AU renewable energy cooperation.