China is significantly advancing in the renewable energy sector, having installed nearly three times as many wind turbines as the United States and generating more than twice as much solar power. The country is home to five of the ten largest electric vehicle (EV) companies and the three largest wind turbine manufacturers. Furthermore, China dominates the battery production market, supplying most of the anodes, cathodes, and battery cells essential for powering vehicles, grids, and electronic devices.
China’s shift toward clean energy has contributed to improvements in air quality, development of domestic industries, job creation, and the establishment of trade relationships. This strategy not only aids in economic growth but may also enhance China’s influence in global affairs, especially in contrast to the US, which has been distancing itself from international organizations.
The increasing trade partnerships may provide China with insulation against external pressures, including potential trade conflicts driven by previous US administrations. In contrast, long-term economic strength in the US has often been attributed to substantial federal investments in education, science, and research and development, which have been reduced in recent policy discussions.
Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed to rescind the Obama-era “endangerment finding,” a key legal basis for regulating greenhouse gas emissions. The proposal draws heavily from a report that questions the expected negative impacts of rising emissions, relying on long-standing climate denial narratives. This perspective contrasts sharply with current evidence, as the US has experienced extreme weather events, including record heat waves and significant wildfire smoke issues.
In response, a group of over 85 scientists has submitted a comprehensive 459-page critique of the EPA report, asserting that it is biased and contains numerous errors, raising concerns about its suitability for guiding public policy.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/09/04/1123014/how-trump-is-helping-china-extend-its-massive-lead-in-clean-energy/