China's technology dominance poses risks to UK energy security

The United Kingdom’s transition toward net zero energy goals is increasingly reliant on Chinese-manufactured technology. The Cleve Hill solar farm in Kent, the largest of its kind in Britain, serves as a primary example. The project utilizes 550,000 solar panels produced by Trina Solar, alongside battery systems from CATL and inverters from Huawei.

While these mega-projects aim to support economic growth and provide cheaper power, experts have raised concerns regarding energy security. Because China controls nearly 90% of the global solar panel supply chain, critics argue that the UK's reliance on Chinese components could grant Beijing significant leverage over the British power system. Potential risks include the possibility of software ‘back doors’ in energy infrastructure and vulnerability to diplomatic or trade coercion.