How China views the EU in global energy governance: A norm exporter, a partner or an outsider?

Abstract:

China and the European Union (EU) are the world’s first and third biggest energy consumers today. Owing to the physical distance and the fact that both China and the EU are energy-importers, there has thus far been a relative lack of interaction in the energy field. Few existing studies of China–EU relations focus on energy issues.

While China became the world’s biggest energy consumer, largest carbon-emitter as well as largest investor in renewable energy in 2011, the EU has been facing challenges in securing its energy supply because of domestic antagonism towards nuclear power and a worsening relationship with Russia. Adding also the role of energy-related carbon emissions in the international climate change negotiations, energy became a crucial area for cooperation for world players like China and the EU.

This article examines the China–EU energy interaction, especially the perceptions of the EU’s role. The analysis is based on primary empirical data from three research projects. It finds that China has yet to view the EU as a prominent global energy player or even a major energy partner. Instead of passively receiving norms sent by the EU in the energy dialogues, this article argues that China has been a selective norm-taker.