China's $180B Clean-Tech Bet: What's Next for Global South?
Chinese companies have committed over $180 billion to clean energy projects abroad since early 2023, according to a Climate Energy Finance report. Dominating solar panels, batteries, and EVs, they're building full supply chains from mining to recycling in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and beyond. This surge creates jobs, cuts energy costs, and speeds up the shift to renewables in developing nations. As global warming accelerates, these investments highlight the urgent need for clean tech to slash emissions and build sustainable futures, proving electrification outperforms fossil fuels with reliable, cheaper power.
China leads the world in clean energy manufacturing, controlling 80% of new solar, wind, battery, and hydrogen plants from 2018 to 2024. Companies like CATL and BYD are exporting tech and setting up factories worldwide, focusing on the Global South where energy demands are huge.
Over 75% of projects target developing countries, often tying into the Belt and Road Initiative. In Southeast Asia, massive battery plants in Indonesia and Malaysia create thousands of jobs and boost local solar and EV production. The Middle East sees solar farms in Saudi Arabia and battery hubs in Morocco, turning deserts into green energy sources.
Even Europe and Latin America benefit, with huge EV battery factories in Hungary, Spain, and Brazil. These moves lower costs, upgrade grids, and drive industrial growth while cutting fossil fuel reliance.
This global push matters now more than ever—climate change demands fast action, and clean electrification delivers cheaper, cleaner power that fights warming and secures energy for all. Sustainable solutions like these build resilient economies and protect the planet for future generations.