222. Understanding Energy and Technology in China - Mar26
From Redefining Energy by Laurent Segalen and Gerard Reid
March 30, 2026 · 32 min
About this episode
The episode discusses China's energy system transformation from fossil fuels to electrification with insights from Dr. Michal Meidan.
Laurent and Gerard speak with Dr. Michal Meidan, Head of China Energy Research at the China Energy Research Programme at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, about the profound transformation reshaping China’s energy system. At the heart of the discussion is the country’s pivot from “molecules” to “electrons” — a structural shift from fossil fuels toward electrification powered by renewables, batteries, and electric mobility. This transition is not just about decarbonization; it represents a broader industrial and technological reconfiguration with global consequences. At the same time, China remains central to fossil fuel markets: it is the world's largest fossil fuel importer and is set to maintain that position for the rest of this decade and beyond. Still the recent events in the Strait of Hormuz have vindicated China’s energy policy of diversification, investment and strategic storage. China’s approach reflects a distinctive “dual track” model in which command-and-control planning coexists with market dynamics. Central government frameworks, including the recent 15th Five-Year Plan, set strategic direction, while provinces interpret and implement policy with varying…
People in this episode
Hosts: Laurent Segalen, Gerard Reid
Guest: Dr. Michal Meidan
Topics covered
- China's energy transformation
- electrification
- renewable energy
- fossil fuels
- energy policy
- electric mobility
- industrial reconfiguration
Keywords
- energy transition
- China
- decarbonization
- batteries
- electric vehicles
- market dynamics
- Five-Year Plan
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: China Energy Research Programme, Oxford Institute for Energy Studies
Places: China, Strait of Hormuz
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