COP31 will show up the folly of cleantech tariffs
SMH•COP31 organizers are pushing for electricity to meet 35% of global final energy demand by 2035, up from 23% today. The summit also puts tariffs on Chinese clean technologies in focus, as the article argues that protectionism risks slowing electrification.
1. Electrification target
The United Nations climate summit COP31, scheduled for November 9 to 20 in Antalya, Turkey, is seeking to speed up electrification. Organizers aim for electricity to supply 35% of global final energy demand by 2035, compared with 23% currently.
2. Measuring energy use
The article argues that final energy understates the contribution of renewables because it does not account for losses when fuels are converted into useful energy. It says renewables already provide 37% of electricity on a useful-energy basis, citing the International Energy Agency.
3. Tariffs and supply
The article says China’s lead in electric vehicles, solar panels and batteries has fueled protectionist measures. It cites EU tariffs on Chinese EVs and US import taxes of 100% on battery-powered cars, at least 50% on solar panels and 25% on lithium-ion batteries, and argues that accepting Chinese products and encouraging manufacturers to build factories abroad could ease trade tensions.
