A senior executive from TotalEnergies has underscored China's pivotal role as a driving force in global sustainable innovation, especially within the energy sector. During the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization Energy Ministers Meeting in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, Yu Yongjian, the country chair for TotalEnergies in China, emphasized the significant advancements China has made and the French energy giant's increasing dependence on Chinese technologies.

Yu noted that China has positioned itself at the cutting edge of energy technology development over the last 15 years, achieving what he referred to as 'remarkable results'. He pointed out that China's leadership in crucial areas like solar panels, wind turbine generators, electric vehicles, and battery technology serves as a testament to its standing on the global stage.

This innovative spirit is of great importance to TotalEnergies, as Yu elaborated on the company's extensive utilization of Chinese-made solar panels and wind turbines across its global projects. The implementation of these technologies not only reflects China's technological prowess but also enhances TotalEnergies’ commitment to sustainable practices.

In line with its strategy to capitalize on local innovations, TotalEnergies has initiated local research and development projects within China aimed at addressing pressing global challenges. Earlier this year, the company established a dedicated unit focused on fostering synergies between its Chinese operations and its global business framework.

Zhu Yicong, vice president of renewables and power research at Rystad Energy, highlighted that China has witnessed a remarkable surge in renewable energy capacity installations in recent years. This robust trend suggests that the momentum for expanding clean energy sources will continue unabated.

According to projections from Rystad Energy, China’s solar sector is on track for an unprecedented expansion, with expectations that the total installed solar photovoltaic capacity will surpass the significant benchmark of 1,000 gigawatts by the end of 2026. This forecast reflects the scale of growth anticipated in the coming years.

Zhu indicated that a considerable portion of the world's solar installations in 2025 is expected to occur in China, reinforcing the nation’s vital role in the global renewable energy landscape. Yu further identified the vast market size in China as a key advantage that supports the practical application of technological innovations.

Additionally, Yu emphasized China's complete industrial chain and robust manufacturing capabilities as essential factors facilitating the cost-effective deployment of new energy technologies, particularly in the realms of renewables and energy storage.

Collaboratively working with Chinese partners, TotalEnergies is focusing on the development of clean energy products, including sustainable aviation fuel, green power, hydrogen, and carbon capture. Yu reiterated the importance of adopting Chinese innovations, such as solar components and storage systems, as part of the company’s global low-carbon business strategy.