As global climate efforts face mounting challenges, cooperation between China and Europe has emerged as a linchpin for achieving sustainable energy goals, according to Stientje van Veldhoven, Vice President and Regional Director for Europe at the World Resources Institute (WRI).
In an exclusive interview with CGTN, van Veldhoven emphasized that collaborative innovation in renewable technologies and policy alignment between the two powers could fill critical leadership gaps in climate governance. "The scale of China's clean energy deployment combined with Europe's transition experience creates a unique synergy," she noted, highlighting recent joint ventures in offshore wind and green hydrogen projects.
The remarks come as China maintains its position as the world's largest renewable energy investor, while Europe accelerates its REPowerEU plan to phase out fossil fuels. Analysts suggest this partnership could help bridge divides between developed and developing nations in climate negotiations.
For businesses and policymakers, the evolving China-Europe dynamic presents both opportunities and challenges. Cross-border investments in battery storage solutions and smart grid technologies have increased 34% year-on-year, according to WRI data, though questions remain about supply chain resilience and intellectual property frameworks.
As climate scientists warn of narrowing timelines to meet Paris Agreement targets, this transcontinental collaboration may prove decisive in shaping humanity's energy future.
