In a CGTN Global Watch interview on August 30, Professor YIN Haitao from Antai College of Economics and Management at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, joined an international panel of experts to discuss China's renewable energy transition. The panel also included Professor Carl Fay from BI Norwegian Business School, and Adjunct Professor Warwick Powell from Queensland University of Technology. Experts provided a comprehensive global perspective on China's green energy initiatives.
During the panel discussion, Professor YIN Haitao provided a nuanced perspective on China's green energy transition. He emphasized that China's push towards renewable energy is propelled by a dual commitment: the nation's carbon neutrality goal for 2060 and the rapid technological progress in the sector.
Professor YIN highlighted the significant role of private enterprises in driving this transition. He noted that the decreasing costs of renewable energy have made it an attractive investment for businesses, leading to substantial private sector involvement in the green energy market.
YIN pointed out the emerging economic opportunities in this shift, particularly in advanced technologies like energy storage solutions. He also touched upon China's global responsibility, mentioning the country's pledge to cease funding coal-based power plants in developing nations as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. He also stressed the delicate balance China is striking between fostering economic growth and prioritizing environmental protection. He described an ongoing shift towards a more sustainable economic model that reduces reliance on resource-intensive industries.
Importantly, Professor YIN framed China's energy transition primarily as a technological challenge rather than an ideological issue. He emphasized the need to focus on practical hurdles, such as efficiently integrating renewable energy into existing power grids, instead of getting entangled in political debates.
Throughout the discussion, YIN's insights aligned with the broader conversation about China's pivotal role in global green energy development. He provided a balanced view, acknowledging both the significant progress made and the challenges that lie ahead in this transformative journey.
Watch full interview: https://www.cgtn.com/tv/replay?id=BfEbHAA
About Professor YIN Haitao
Professor YIN Haitao holds a Ph.D. from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and has held positions at prestigious institutions including the University of Michigan. His research focuses on environmental and energy economics and policy. YIN has led significant research projects and published in top academic journals, receiving numerous awards including the National Science Fund for Excellent Young Scholars.
As China continues to advance its green energy goals, Professor YIN's insights, along with those of his international colleagues, provide valuable perspective for policymakers, industry leaders, and academics alike.