China and the U.S. Must Co-operate on Energy

Although the U.S. and China differ in their stages of development as well as in their energy makeup and consumption levels, the challenge of global climate change that both countries face is identical. I believe that China and the U.S. can transcend strategic differences concerning energy, environmental and territorial development and cooperate. Both countries already share a close common interest in pushing for clean energy strategies. Cooperation is not only necessary, but also possible.

First, let us consider collaboration in energy conservation and in the improvement of energy efficiency. Over the last few years, China and the U.S. have proposed a certain number of restrictive norms for energy efficiency. In the construction of energy-efficient buildings, high-efficiency tools, electrical networks and technology are all in operation. There are many more opportunities in these areas for both countries to strengthen their cooperation.

Second, both countries can work together in developing clean coal technology. China and the U.S. are the world’s largest consumers of coal. China is currently making efforts to promote and use supercritical generators, including integrated gasification combined cycles, a technology where carbon is trapped and sealed. The U.S. is also invested in long-term research and development concerning clean coal technology. The prospects of success are better if both countries work together.

Third, both countries can work in partnership to develop new forms and renewable sources of energy. China and the U.S. are, according to their own strategic goals, investing heavily in wind, solar and advanced bio-fuel energy technology. China has focused on developing new nuclear energy strategies; the U.S., however, is still a leader in this area. Strengthening U.S. – China relations will provide both countries with immense opportunities for investment.

Fourth, cooperation can protect the safety of international energy markets. For the first half of the 21st century—particularly the first 20 years—the U.S. and China will still be the world’s main importers of oil and gas, despite meeting their own emissions reduction goals. In order to protect the international energy market, to push for the implementation of a stable, international pricing system, as well as a system that will safeguard energy sources, both countries must strengthen their strategic partnership.

It is clear that the 4 above-cited points might gradually evolve into a collaborative relationship conducive to the development of clean energy sources and market expansion. This can be profitable for both sides. We can affirm that strategic cooperation on energy issues between China and the U.S can acquire vitality.

In order to protect the planet, both countries must focus on creating energy strategies to help guide themselves as well as their interaction with other nations. This is extremely important to the peaceful rise of China, the projected development of the U.S., and global progress.

China is currently focusing on a low-carbon economy and green development by means of innovation in energy technology and the development of new sources of energy. Domestic policy should be aimed at limiting the consumption of energy resources and environmental pollution. Foreign policy should not be about plundering, going to war, and occupying countries to obtain their energy resources. We should remain committed to peaceful and civil development, and, at the same time, promote global mutual cooperation with all countries. This is the fundamental way in which China should face the energy and environmental challenge of the first half of the 21st century. This can also guarantee that China can carve out a path that will allow for its peaceful rise and development as a restored global power.

People have seen that in regards to China and the U.S., respectively the world’s largest developing and developed countries, pragmatic cooperation in energy issues is the most important aspect of their relationship. Strengthening this collaboration can undoubtedly provide the momentum necessary to promote a peaceful and prosperous world.

In summary, both China and the U.S. will have to consider their strategic interests in order to develop a real working relationship. Moreover, the continued strengthening of this collaboration will be the only way to ensure a partnership that can enable a lasting commitment to development.

Zheng Bijian is President of the China Institute of Strategy and Management.