China, Geopolitics, and Energy Transition

Abstract

This paper analyzes the convergence of challenges faced by China, including the pressure from the United States to curb its scientific and technological development, and the environmental pollution resulting from its own industrial success. The former constitutes the core of today’s geopolitical tensions, which are expected to persist for decades with unpredictable consequences. This study weaves together multiple disciplines—geopolitics, economics, technological changes in production and energy transition, microchip production and its implications, among others. Economic and technological changes in general, and especially those related to the energy transition, are deeply affected by U.S. pressure on China. Various types of documents have been analyzed: governmental reports, publications from reputable organizations in the energy sector, works by recognized authors, specialists in specific topics, press information, etc. The paper begins with an introduction, followed by a brief analysis of polluting energy sources contributing to global warming, the different types of primary energy, their evolution, and current composition. It then explores non-polluting energy sources, including the so-called “energy transition” based on renewable and/or clean energy sources such as hydro, nuclear, and the newer wind and solar options. The most extensive section focuses on what China calls its “new productive forces,” reviewing previous growth drivers (exports, housing construction, etc.) and the new technological fields China has been developing for over a decade. The final section offers conclusions and reflections.