January 19, 2025
The growing likelihood of a TikTok ban in America has triggered an intriguing phenomenon: the rise of RedNote, a new platform now home to a wave of “TikTok refugees” — a term coined by users who have migrated to this app.
How long RedNote will be allowed to stay and thrive in America before potentially facing similar fate is uncertain. However, one thing is clear: innovation and adaptation are unstoppable. As the Chinese saying goes, “凡墙皆有门” (fán qiáng jiē yǒu mén) — "Every wall has a door." For every obstacle, there is a solution, embodying the spirit of resilience and resourcefulness.
This same mindset is also evident in China’s groundbreaking achievements in decarbonization. While global powers debate strategies, China is taking actions and leaping ahead, setting new standards in renewable energy and clean technology. Here are five areas where China is leaving the rest of the world behind:
1. Solar Energy Installations
- Between January and October 2024, China added 181.3 gigawatts (GW) of new photovoltaic (PV) capacity, with 20.42 GW installed in October alone.
- By August 2024, its cumulative PV capacity reached a staggering 770 GW, outpacing most countries by orders of magnitude.
China's dominance in solar energy highlights its commitment to scaling renewable infrastructure. From constructing record-breaking solar farms in remote deserts to seamlessly integrating them into the grid, China’s industrial might and efficiency are unrivaled.
2. Ultra-High Voltage (UHV) Transmission Lines or A Bullet Train for Power
China's “West-to-East Power Transmission” initiative, covered by BBC, exemplifies innovation at scale. With over 48,000 km of UHV lines crisscrossing the nation, this advanced grid moves renewable energy from sparsely populated western deserts to bustling eastern megacities. These power highways, akin to bullet trains for electricity, solve one of the toughest challenges of renewable energy: efficient long-distance transmission.
3. Electric Vehicle (EV) Revolution
- In 2024, China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) sales jumped 40%, reaching nearly 11 million units.
- November alone saw 1.3 million EVs sold, marking the third consecutive month of record-breaking sales.
With EVs making up over half of monthly car sales, China is transforming its transportation landscape. This surge is powered by government incentives, competitive domestic manufacturing, and a growing environmental consciousness among consumers.
4. Declining Gasoline Consumption
China’s embrace of EVs is reshaping its energy consumption profile. The transition is already reducing gasoline demand, accelerating the nation’s shift from fossil fuels to cleaner energy.
5. Long-Term Decarbonization Plans
China's ability to deliver on its decarbonization goals stems from a unique blend of central planning, industrial policy, and unwavering political commitment. Unlike countries hindered by short-term political cycles, China's vision spans decades, enabling consistent execution of big goals and projects.
While other nations are locked in words, China exemplifies action, proving that decisive governance and industrial innovation can overcome even the toughest challenges like global warming. The combination of bold vision, advanced technology, and relentless determination positions China as a leader in the global race toward a cleaner future.