Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential of the "Electricity Renminbi" strategy, which aims to establish the Renminbi as a new global currency anchor through electricity trade, particularly in developing countries that are currently dependent on the US dollar for energy transactions [5][7][17]. Group 1: Electricity Generation and Export - China has initiated the world's largest hydropower project, the Yarlung Tsangpo River cascade power station, which is expected to generate over 300 billion kilowatt-hours annually, surpassing the Three Gorges Dam [6]. - In 2024, China's new electricity export capacity is projected to reach 24 GW, with 52% coming from renewable sources, marking a historical record [6]. - China is establishing a new energy cooperation model in Belt and Road countries, using Renminbi for pricing and settlement, as seen in a 500 MW wind power agreement with Uzbekistan [6][12]. Group 2: Historical Context and Currency Anchoring - The concept of anchoring the Renminbi to electricity is compared to historical instances where currencies were backed by essential commodities like salt during the early years of the People's Republic of China [7]. - The article suggests that if China can create a stable electricity pricing system tied to the Renminbi, it could provide a cash flow-backed anchor for the currency, making it more reliable than gold or oil [7][12]. Group 3: Global Demand for Electricity - The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that global electric vehicle sales are expected to exceed 17 million units in 2024, a 25% increase year-on-year, indicating a growing demand for electricity [8]. - AI technologies, such as GPT-5, are also significant consumers of electricity, further driving the demand for stable and affordable energy sources [9][10]. Group 4: Advantages of the "Electricity Renminbi" Strategy - The "Electricity Renminbi" strategy is appealing to countries that wish to avoid the complexities and costs associated with dollar transactions, as it simplifies the payment process and reduces currency exchange risks [17][19]. - Countries like Laos and Kazakhstan are already adopting Renminbi for electricity transactions, which helps them avoid the volatility and high costs associated with the US dollar [15][19]. Group 5: Challenges and Competition - The article acknowledges that the US is already responding to China's initiatives with protective measures, such as tariffs on Chinese renewable energy products and incentives for domestic production [30][31]. - Despite these challenges, China's competitive advantages lie in its lower costs for renewable energy projects and its ability to deliver comprehensive energy solutions, including infrastructure and training [32][34]. Group 6: Future Implications - If the "Electricity Renminbi" becomes a viable alternative to the dollar, it could significantly alter the global financial landscape, reducing the dominance of the dollar and allowing countries to transact in a more stable currency [37][44]. - The shift towards using the Renminbi for energy transactions could empower Chinese manufacturers and workers, allowing them to benefit more directly from their labor without the constraints imposed by dollar fluctuations [46][48].
电力人民币,怎样终结美元霸权?
虎嗅APP·2025-08-16 03:34