The Global Story How China beat the US on green energy
9 snips
Feb 3, 2026 
Justin Rowlatt, BBC climate editor who covers energy and China’s clean-tech rise. He traces how China built dominance in solar, wind, batteries and EVs. He contrasts US policy swings with China’s steady industrial planning. He outlines geopolitics of green-tech rivalry and the stakes for global energy supply chains.
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Trump's Windmill Grudge Origin
- Justin recounts Donald Trump's personal clash with a Scottish wind farm near his golf course.
- Trump became an expert witness opposing a license and nurtured a lasting dislike of windmills after losing the case.
China's Manufacturing Dominance
- China dominates global clean-tech manufacturing across solar, wind, batteries and EVs.
- Justin Rowlatt says China holds roughly 60–90% market share in key clean sectors, making it the clear leader.
Energy Policy As Geopolitics
- The US energy stance under Trump prioritises fossil-fuel 'energy dominance' rather than renewables.
- Justin argues this is as much geopolitical competition with China as it is an energy policy choice.