China's Energy and Climate Policy: Security of Supply First

China stands as the world’s leading energy consumer, producer, and importer. Unsurprisingly, it contributes 26% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with 64% of these stemming from its coal-powered electricity sector. The path this Asian giant chooses to follow in the future will therefore have significant implications.

While climate policy drives the most significant developments in the energy sector across the majority of EU member states, China—despite appearing committed to greening—seems to be pursuing a different path. Unlike the EU, China adopts a more conservative energy policy, prioritizing supply security and import diversification. The panel discussion will focus on how China is attempting to balance the so-called "energy trilemma" of energy supply security, greening efforts, and affordable energy prices, all while navigating challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine war, Middle Eastern conflicts, EU/G7 sanctions, globally high energy prices, and increasing Western trade barriers aimed at slowing China's green expansion.

Participants:

Erika Tóthfalusy, Vice President of the Hungarian-Chinese Economic Chamber
Dr. Yinghao He, Researcher at Fudan University, China (Belt and Road & Global Governance Institute, Fudan University)
Dr. Réka Zsuzsánna Máthé, Researcher at the Europe Strategy Research Institute, University of Public Service

The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Ottó Toldi, Senior Researcher at the Climate Policy Institute.

Venue: 1113 Budapest, Tas vezér utca 3-7., Scruton MCC

Date and Time: November 26, 2024, at 5:00 PM

The discussion will be held in English, with a limited number of interpretation devices available at the event.

Participation is free but requires prior registration.

Registration