US-China Rivalry Under Trump’s Energy Law
TL/DR –
Cooperation between the U.S. and China on climate and clean energy, once notable in the run-up to the 2015 Paris Agreement, has been replaced by competition as China emerges as a global clean energy manufacturing leader. President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act changes the course, emphasizing fossil fuels and emerging technologies like advanced nuclear and certain hydrogen sources, while rolling back clean energy incentives. Scott Moore, director of China programs and strategic initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania, discusses the implications of these policy shifts on U.S.-China relations, American competitiveness, and the global energy transition.
Shifting Landscape in U.S.-China Energy Relations and Global Impact
The partnership between the United States and China over matters of climate and clean energy has evolved significantly over the years. A time existed when the two nations enjoyed a common understanding on these issues, with the 2015 Paris Agreement serving as a testament to this unity. But today, the landscape is marked by competition rather than cooperation.
China has now claimed the mantle as the world’s premier player in the realm of clean energy manufacturing. On the other hand, the United States, led by the Biden administration, is trying to keep pace by leveraging the Inflation Reduction Act.
Trump’s Legislation Alters U.S. Clean Energy Policy
The landscape of U.S. clean energy policy has been radically reshaped by President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This piece of legislation has reversed many incentives for clean energy, underlining the focus on fossil fuels, advanced nuclear technologies, and certain hydrogen sources. Trade and supply chain dynamics with China are also being affected by this law, which has escalated tariffs and imposed restrictions on Foreign Entities of Concern.
Such changes in policy raise pertinent questions about their potential impact on U.S.-China relations, U.S. competitiveness on the global stage, and the broader global energy transition.
Expert Insight on the Consequences of Policy Shifts
Scott Moore, who serves as the director of China programs and strategic initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania, is offering his insights on these issues. As a leading authority on U.S.-China relations, Moore can provide valuable perspectives on the ways in which Trump’s policies could change the balance of power between the two largest economies worldwide.
About Scott Moore
Scott Moore is a faculty fellow affiliated with the Kleinman Center for Energy Policy, where he also serves as the Director of China Programs and Strategic Initiatives. In addition, Moore is a practice professor of political science.
About Andy Stone
Andy Stone is the host and producer of Energy Policy Now, a podcast series by the Kleinman Center. He has previously worked in business planning with PJM Interconnection and served as a senior energy reporter at Forbes Magazine.
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