At this pace, China may soon become the world’s first “electro state.” It is powering the global energy transition and helping to shape the clean technology developments of the future. This turn occurs as the United States—historically one of the world’s foremost pioneers in the sustainability movement—recedes from the sustainability forefront and clean technology leadership. It’s a huge shift for a country that once led the world in green technologies. The energy investment landscape is changing fast. With 65% of that financing now going to renewable sources, China’s dominance as a clean tech leader is becoming even more apparent.
Recent reports have focused on China’s amazing strides in clean technology, and for good reason. China is moving rapidly down the path to sustainable energy solutions. The country is turning heads with its commitment to renewables. It’s built 99% of the nation’s new solar, wind and clean energy jobs. This strategic shift has made China one of the most powerful players in the global energy transition.
The Chinese government has shown that it is willing to listen to its scientific community. Their recommendations have been essential in guiding the nation forward with our energy policy. As our China experts emphasize, it is this responsiveness that has enabled China to innovate quickly and get ahead in the clean tech race. By contrast, the United States has struggled to establish policy consistency, often undermined by adjustments in policy due to shifting political leadership.
Our country has a long tradition of U.S. leadership in advancing sustainability and environmental stewardship. A cycle of “policy whiplash” has ensued. Changes in administration have led to vastly different approaches to clean energy projects. Experts say not to expect the U.S. to leap ahead on sustainability initiatives. In sharp contrast, China is playing a much more aggressive game and moving forward at breakneck speed.
Al Gore, former Vice President and environmental advocate, expressed his surprise at China’s emergence as a leader in the energy transition. In fact, he admitted that he wouldn’t have predicted this turn of events 25 years ago.
“I’ve always been of the view that the usefulness of Earth observation from space exceeds the harm from space launches by a fair measure.” – Al Gore
Gore’s insights do paint a picture of a deeper issue—a lack of sustained leadership on sustainability issues. He stressed that the world would be better served by a long-term commitment from the U.S. Addressing climate change and building renewable energy solutions is an urgent priority.
In just a few short years, global energy investment trends have changed radically. This is a huge change from previous years, when most funding went towards fossil fuels. 35% of funding is now going to renewables! This sea change represents a growing awareness of the pressing need to move beyond carbon-heavy energy sources.
Preston, a national industry leader, highlighted the challenges and opportunities that come with such a transformative transition.
“This is the best systems-level problem we’ve ever had to work through.” – Preston
His comments reflect a deeper understanding of the complicated realities that come with the serious and sometimes difficult task of changing global energy systems.
Artificial intelligence applications are revolutionizing industries such as energy, transportation, and agriculture. Taken together, these innovations have the potential to reduce global emissions by 6% to 10% annually by 2035. This innovative combination will be key for fulfilling our sustainability goals and reducing the adverse impacts of climate change.
The worldwide demand for clean technology and renewable energy solutions has never been greater. In fact, more than two-thirds of this recent boom is not fueled by China — it’s from the U.S. This momentous jump is a needed shock to the system and underscores the critical need for ambitious, coordinated action between countries.
