2025 Picks: How China became a green energy superpower

China's transformation into a global renewable energy powerhouse, or "electrostate," is driven by a combination of factors, including the need to combat severe pollution, achieve energy security, and seize economic opportunities. The Communist Party's "Made in China 2025" plan spurred massive investments in renewable technologies like wind, solar, and electric vehicles. Climate reporter Jo Lauder explains that China now boasts half of the world's wind power and electric cars, and in April 2025 alone, installed more solar power than Australia has in its entire history. While China's clean energy exports are projected to significantly reduce global emissions, the nation continues to build coal-fired power plants to meet its growing energy demands, creating a complex dynamic as it strives to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.