Global clean energy supply chains are becoming a central issue in the energy transition, and the data shows one clear reality: China dominates the key technologies the world relies on to decarbonize. This has lowered costs and accelerated clean energy adoption around the globe
Across solar photovoltaics, China controls most of the value chain, from polysilicon and wafers to cells, modules, and installations. This dominance is expected to continue through 2030, meaning global solar growth remains closely tied to Chinese manufacturing.
The same is true for rare earth elements used in wind turbines and electric motors while mining is more distributed, China leads in refining and neodymium magnet production.
While absolutely essential, strengthening energy security requires more than installing renewables. It will depend on diversifying supply chains, ending the use of trade and tariffs as a weapon of economic warfare by the United States, expanding local manufacturing, and building long term resilience of global supply chains.
Source: Based on an edited post by Upgrader, January 20, 2026.
China Environment News 