刘汉元：AI 背后的能源支撑 清洁能源成中国经济新引擎

Core Viewpoint - The development of AI is heavily reliant on energy support, and China's energy security is a growing concern due to high foreign dependence and significant foreign exchange expenditures [1][3]. Energy Landscape and Economic Growth - China has become the world's largest energy consumer, with electricity consumption exceeding that of the U.S. by more than double since 2011, and energy increments are closely linked to GDP growth [3][4]. - The high foreign dependence on energy reached 70%-75% in previous years, with energy imports exceeding $470 billion in 2024, making it the largest area of foreign exchange expenditure [3][4]. Transition Pathways - The majority of China's oil consumption (over 70%) is used in transportation, and 1 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity can replace 500 million tons of oil, which cost over $300 billion in 2024 alone [4]. - The current energy structure, primarily based on coal, is a major source of carbon emissions and faces international environmental pressures [4]. - Clean energy sources, particularly solar and wind power, are identified as the core of the transition, with predictions that by 2050, 50%-80% of China's electricity consumption (30 trillion kilowatt-hours) could be met through clean energy [4]. Economic Opportunities and Global Participation - The transition to renewable energy is expected to create a massive industry cluster worth 10 to 20 trillion RMB annually, comparable to the size of the real estate sector, providing sustained economic growth for the next 10 to 20 years [4]. - The development of the renewable energy sector will also facilitate the internationalization of the RMB, as Chinese products in solar energy, electric vehicles, and energy storage enter the global market, participating in a $200 trillion market for global energy carbon neutrality [5].