China boosts profitable renewables as Trump clings to coal
Deutsche Welle
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
China is rapidly outpacing the United States in renewable energy development, while the Trump administration continues to prioritize coal. During a speech at the World Economic Forum, President Trump mocked China's wind power capabilities, claiming the country doesn't use its own windmills despite being the largest exporter of wind turbines. However, China added record-breaking wind and solar capacity in 2025, surpassing global peers like the US by a significant margin. This progress has positioned China as a key player in the global energy transition, manufacturing over 80% of solar panels, 60% of wind turbines, and 75% of electric vehicles worldwide.
While China's renewable energy investments are impressive, its reliance on coal remains a notable challenge. Unlike the US, which is expanding coal and gas projects under Trump's executive orders, China has shifted its strategy to use coal as a flexible power source rather than a baseline provider. This strategic adjustment, combined with advancements in clean technology like battery storage, allows China to balance grid fluctuations without relying on coal for stable energy supply.
The contrast between the two superpowers highlights diverging approaches to climate action and economic competitiveness. While China continues to lead in renewable energy manufacturing and deployment, the US has distanced itself from international climate forums and rolled back environmental protections. Experts warn that this decision could undermine America's long-term economic and political influence on the global stage.
Despite its strides in clean tech, China remains cautious about asserting leadership in climate action, preferring a "do more, say less" approach. This pragmatic strategy ensures China can deliver on its commitments without overpromising. Meanwhile, the US's focus on coal revival under Trump's "America First" agenda aligns with his administration's broader energy and economic priorities.
The implications of these divergent paths are significant for global climate efforts. While China's renewable energy investments help reduce emissions domestically and internationally, the US's reliance on fossil fuels risks falling behind in the clean energy race. The world is watching to see whether China's quiet but substantial progress will position it as a global leader in combating climate change.
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/23/2026