China’s Green Dominance, EU’s EV Bus Boom, and a GDP Shake-Up
From clean energy manufacturing dominance to shifts in how economies measure natural resources, this week’s top energy stories highlight major global trends. China’s grip on renewable energy supply chains continues to expand, while electric buses gain momentum across Europe. Meanwhile, a new UN-approved economic framework will recognize wind and waves as assets for the first time, potentially reshaping GDP calculations.
🌡️ Heat Pump Trade Growth
While international trade in clean energy technologies has surged, heat pumps have seen slower growth. As global demand for energy-efficient heating rises, trade is expected to increase, but major markets will still rely heavily on local manufacturing. Supply chains and policy incentives will play a key role in scaling production and adoption.
🌍 China’s Renewable Energy Manufacturing Dominance
China has solidified its position as the world leader in renewable energy manufacturing, producing the majority of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and electric vehicles. Decades of strategic green industrial policy have propelled China ahead, giving it control over supply chains crucial to the global clean energy transition.
🚌 Nearly Half of EU City Buses Sold in 2024 Were Electric
Electric buses are rapidly replacing diesel fleets across Europe, driven by aggressive EU policies and local city initiatives. In 2024, nearly 50% of all new city buses sold were fully electric, a major milestone in the shift toward zero-emission public transport. If this pace continues, all new city buses in the EU could be electric by 2027, significantly reducing urban emissions.
🚗 Chinese EV Market Share Overseas
China’s electric vehicle manufacturers are gaining traction in global markets, expanding beyond domestic dominance. This visualization highlights how Chinese automakers are capturing market share in Europe, Southeast Asia, and other regions, challenging traditional car brands.
📊 Data, Waves, and Wind to Be Counted in the Economy
Wind and waves will soon be factored into national GDP calculations under new UN rules, set to take effect in 2030. This update reflects the growing economic value of natural resources and data, potentially increasing GDP estimates for some countries.