The energy transition cannot take place without international cooperation. This issue does not stop at the border. As the Netherlands, we cannot do without China, because many products such as solar panels and electric cars are produced there. Working together on our shared ambitions for a sustainable future can lead to great results.
Currently, 95% of all products needed for the energy transition, such as solar panels, come from China, says Gerard Scheper. He is CEO of European Solar, a company that connects Chinese products with European partners. European Solar helps integrate solar panels, batteries and inverters into local projects throughout the region. ‘Today, we are seeing more and more Chinese companies being based here, whether or not they are represented by Europeans,’ says Mr Scheper. ‘This dependence also offers opportunities: for deeper cooperation, development and shared responsibility.’
Scheper emphasises the human factor in this regard: it is crucial to the success of a project. His company builds bridges between Europe and China, enabling them to achieve success together.
A good example of cooperation between a Dutch and a Chinese company is that of HYXiPOWER and BM Energy. Together, they are introducing battery systems that make homes and businesses smarter and greener. Stephan Quack, commercial director of BM Energy, is enthusiastic about this collaboration. He says he thinks it is a good match between the two companies, with HYXiPOWER having been in close contact with them from the start.
One successful Chinese company that has established itself in the Netherlands is NIO, a premium brand for electric cars. Tristan Hamelin, managing director of NIO in the Netherlands, says that the brand is becoming increasingly well known here. With their new brand Firefly, which is part of NIO, they hope to expand even further and continue to grow. In this way, Chinese electric cars are helping Europe on its way to zero emissions.
