House Panel Debates Whether Biden-Era Energy Policies Benefit China

During a recent hearing of the House Energy & Commerce Committee’s Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Materials Subcommittee, the impact of China’s energy policies on the US was a hotly debated topic.

The Battle for Critical Minerals

Subcommittee Chair Bill Johnson (R-Ohio) expressed concern that until the US increases its capacity for critical mineral extraction and refining, relying on renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs) will only benefit China. He also drew attention to China’s use of forced Uyghur labor.

Subcommittee Ranking Member Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) agreed that the US needs to find ways to meet its critical mineral needs ethically and sustainably.

The Role of Legislation

Democrats and Republicans had differing views on the role of legislation in addressing China’s lead in critical industries. Trevor Higgins, an energy and environmental expert, praised the Inflation Reduction Act for driving supply chains for advanced batteries back to the US. However, Daniel Simmons, vice president for policy with the Institute for Energy Research, argued that recent vehicle emissions standards from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are de facto mandates for EVs.

The Impact on US Energy Security

Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) expressed concern that the Biden administration’s “rush to green” will strengthen China and weaken America’s energy security. She pointed out that the US is dependent on Chinese supply chains for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are essential for battery packs.

It’s clear that China’s energy policies have far-reaching implications for the US. As the battle for critical minerals continues, it’s up to lawmakers to find ways to meet the country’s energy needs ethically and sustainably.