Abstract
In China, debates on energy security are diverse and far beyond geopolitical analysis. Findings from the ever-expanding literature indicate two major schools of thought, namely the nationalist and globalist ones, while a pragmatic approach has been prevailing that integrates exploring domestic sources and engaging external actors when needed. The challenges of having to do whatever feasible to meet energy demands and at the same time, pursuing alternatives that reduce its negative impact on human health and environment, have led to growing pluralism in policy advocacy in China. While the two schools of thought on energy security will continue to compete against each other, the argumentative strength of each school shall be conditioned by many factors influencing China’s macro-economic fluctuations in general and energy economies in particular. The Chinese government’s energy policy-making is expected to reflect a dynamic balance between both schools.
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