Energy now a focus of US-China contest of the century

China recognises that electricity drives its economy. Despite being a major producer of coal, crude oil and natural gas, China remains an importer of these hydrocarbons. However, with strategic patience, through its five-year plans, the country has been diversifying into alternative energies, including solar, wind, hydro and nuclear energy. By making energy security a priority, rapidly decarbonising and cutting pollution through the transition to renewable energy, China has become the global leader in solar panel, wind turbine, battery, electric vehicle and grid technology. The US, on the other hand, became the world’s top oil producer in the 19th century after…