2023 US-China Energy Cooperation Meeting

On December 21, AmCham China hosted the 2023 US-China Energy Cooperation Meeting and the annual Energy Cooperation Program (ECP) Reception in Beijing.

The meeting drew more than 150 influential participants from the global energy sector, including representatives from both China and international entities. Among the attendees were delegates from government departments, research institutions, industry associations, and member companies.

At the event, guests discussed recent milestones achieved through ECP. The meeting served as a platform to exchange insights on how the energy sector is driving the transition towards sustainable energy, thereby promoting low-carbon development. Additionally, the gathering offered an opportunity to delve into and anticipate emerging opportunities and challenges in US-China and international energy collaboration, particularly in the context of global carbon neutrality and China’s ambitious dual-carbon objectives.

Everett Wakai, Minister Counselor for Commercial Affairs at the US Embassy in Beijing, and Dr. An Fengquan, Deputy Director-General of the International Cooperation Department in National Energy Administration (NEA) delivered opening remarks. In his speech, Wakai praised ECP’s pivotal role in fostering US-China Cooperation, particularly in advancing clean energy and addressing the climate crisis. He emphasized the critical importance of sustaining the ongoing collaboration between the two nations, highlighting the future impact of energy cooperation and underscoring the integral role played by ECP in shaping US-China relations.

Echoing these sentiments, Dr. An Fengquan from the NEA commended the sustained efforts of ECP in strengthening energy collaboration between the two countries. Amid improving bilateral relations, he expressed optimism regarding the ECP's ongoing progress and provided multifaceted suggestions for future cooperation that spanned across the realms of government, business, and ECP.

Also in their remarks, both speakers referenced the landmark "Sunnylands Statement on Enhancing Cooperation to Address the Climate Crisis", an agreement signed in San Francisco on November 14, 2023 as well as the 2023 Climate Change Conference (COP28) that was held in Dubai in early December. Despite challenges, both speakers agreed that US-China energy cooperation has progressed significantly. Both nations play indispensable roles in global energy climate governance and the transition to clean energy. This synergy is crucial for securing energy stability, propelling transformation, and addressing climate change.

The event’s keynote speech, delivered by Dr. Jiang Hao, Director of International Cooperation Department in China Renewable Energy Engineering Institute (CREEI), offered an insightful policy analysis under the theme of 'Policy and Industry Insight on Low Carbon High-Quality Development in Energy.'" 

In Dr. Jiang's report, he provided a comprehensive review of China's progress in the energy revolution and international cooperation. He also went on to identify key aspects and emerging trends in China's journey towards low-carbon, high-quality energy development, with a particular emphasis on the innovative features, benefits, and application scenarios of new electric power systems. His analysis extended to the future of renewable energy development, shedding light on potential avenues for cooperation in the ongoing energy transition.

The conference also featured a thought-provoking presentation by William Yu, President of Honeywell China and newly elected member of AmCham China’s Board of Governors, under the theme "Energy Transition and Low Carbon Technology Innovation." Yu delved into Honeywell's role in advancing energy transition through cutting-edge technological innovations. He introduced the latest generation of low-carbon technologies, including advanced fourth-generation refrigerators, bio-aviation fuel technology, and carbon capture, storage, and utilization techniques. His presentation also explored the opportunities and responsibilities that arise from global warming from a technological innovation and corporate social responsibility perspective.

The next speaker, Dr. Zhao Sufang, General Manager of Low Carbon Solution for ExxonMobil China, shared information from her report "Leading Energy Transition and Low Carbon Development.” Dr. Zhao highlighted the significant achievements of ExxonMobil's CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage) business along with its lithium production projects over the past year. She went on to underscore the oil company's commitment to achieving their low-carbon and zero-carbon objectives, marking a notable step in the energy sector's evolution.

The panel discussion revolved around the theme “Energy Climate Cooperation", with experts shared and discussed the opportunities and challenges in energy climate cooperation. Moderated by Cao Yang, Global Vice President and China President of Baker Hughes, the panel featured Dr. Feng Wujun, Chief Researcher of the Energy and Technology Research Institute of Beijing Energy Group and Secretary General of Beijing Carbon Neutral Society; Chris Li , Director of Cheniere Energy China; Sun Guangbin, CSO of JA Solar; and Dr. Xie Huan, Deputy Director General of Technology Center for Power System in North China Electric Power Research Institute (NCEPRI).

Yang emphasized the imperative for a "systemic and transformative" approach to address climate change. Li provided context, briefly recounting the historical cooperation between the US and China in the LNG sector, and expressed optimism about future collaboration. For his part, Sun commended the international community's dedication to sustainable development and shared insights on the broad prospects for US-China collaboration in solar photovoltaic power generation. Dr. Xie, based on his observations of the Jing-Jin-Tang power grid, noted the region's new energy installation ratio is surpassing the national average. He proposed that the power grid, as a "carrier of clean energy," will play a pivotal role in the electricity transition.

AmCham China President Michael Hart concluded the meeting with closing remarks, emphasizing that ECP serves as an open platform for government-industry dialogues and cooperation. He highlighted its role in facilitating discussions among government agencies and industry peers on the crucial topic of energy climate cooperation. Hart called upon every participating enterprise and individual to recognize their responsibility in contributing to energy transition cooperation and addressing the climate crisis.

Following the meeting, the Chamber hosted the annual ECP Reception with support from China’s National Energy Administration and the Gansu Provincial Office in Beijing. Philanthropic member companies and individuals contributed an excess of 412,345 RMB, designated for earthquake relief in Jishishan County, Linxia Prefecture, and educational projects in Qingshui County, Gansu, showcasing a strong commitment to community support and social responsibility in the energy sector.

Despite Beijing's coldest temperatures in years, the event was marked by unwavering enthusiasm. Experts and special guests delivered insightful speeches and reports, fostering dynamic dialogues. Charitable businesses and individuals reached out to aid disaster-affected residents and students in Gansu, providing hope and comfort in the cold. Looking forward to 2024, the event concluded with a positive outlook and renewed pledges to elevate US-China energy cooperation in the coming year.