Europe faces the risk of a new form of energy dependence—Russian gas is gradually being replaced by Chinese "green" technologies. Without equipment from China, the transition to renewable energy is practically impossible. This undermines national security, in particular by creating a breeding ground for cyberattacks and espionage.
This is reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing an analysis by the Financial Times.
Global monopoly
The study shows that China completely dominates the market for the production of components for "green" energy facilities. The market shares for the manufacture of individual components are as follows:
- solar panels – 90%;
- wind turbines – over 80%;
- batteries – 80%;
- rare earth metals – full control over supply chains.
European countries, in their pursuit of clean energy, are widely installing Chinese equipment while paying little attention to hidden threats. This was emphasized by Michael Collins, co-author of the report and former senior UK national security official.
Threat scenarios
Equipment from China can be subjected to large-scale remote attacks. Experts in particular highlight the existence of so-called software “kill switches” – a button press in Beijing would be enough for solar and wind power stations in another country to cease operation.
Separately, experts stress the danger posed by inverters, which serve as the “intermediaries” between renewable power plants and national energy systems. The authors of the study are almost certain that China has access to their software code.
Another risk lies in the political domain. The United States, by threatening sanctions, may demand the removal of Chinese equipment. A similar case occurred in the United Kingdom, where, due to U.S. pressure, Huawei equipment was banned from 5G networks.
Hesitant steps to escape the rrap
After the war in Iran, renewable energy appeared to many countries to be a safe and advantageous alternative, ostensibly making them autonomous in electricity generation and free from price fluctuations. However, this caused Europe to become dependent on technology from China.
Some countries are attempting to gradually mitigate these risks. Recently, the United Kingdom blocked the construction of a Chinese wind turbine plant. At the same time, UK security agencies issued recommendations to remove Chinese components from the national grid. In turn, Italy made it a condition that solar panels must not be Chinese, which was stated at the latest state auctions.
For their part, Chinese officials deny all accusations. They play the environmental card, claiming that their affordable panels help the entire planet fight global warming.
EcoPolitic previously reported that China is a global driver of renewable energy development. In 2025, China's new generation capacities exceeded the figures of all the G7 countries combined.
