Environmental Organizations Accused of Empowering China
The Energy Foundation’s financial ties to China have raised alarm bells among critics who argue that these connections are “disturbing and reprehensible.” Tom Pyle, the president of the Institute for Energy Research, expressed his concerns in an interview with Fox News Digital, stating that these environmental organizations are sacrificing national security and empowering China. Pyle criticized the Biden administration and environmentalists who, fueled by China, are promoting policies that increase dependence on the country and hinder domestic production of oil and gas.
Grant Revenue Declines, but Funding for Initiatives Increases
According to the Energy Foundation’s financial filings, its grant revenue declined by 30% to $56.7 million in 2022. However, funding for initiatives and projects worldwide increased by 27% to $52.1 million compared to the previous year.
Notable Grants to U.S. Organizations
The Energy Foundation distributed grants to various organizations in the U.S. One notable recipient was the Colorado-based think tank, which received $900,000. This think tank has engaged with the White House on climate policy and advocates for reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Another grant went towards funding a study that highlighted the dangers of natural gas-powered stovetops, leading to calls for bans on this appliance. Other organizations that received funding include the Washington, D.C.-based International Council on Clean Transportation, the University of Maryland, the Jackson Hole Center for Global Affairs, and the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Criticism of Grant-Making Focus
Critics argue that the Energy Foundation’s grant-making is primarily focused on impeding energy production and transportation within the U.S. Pyle emphasized that these organizations have little to do with the environment and more to do with advancing a redistribution agenda. He warned that if successful, these policies would weaken America and strengthen China.
Extensive Ties to the Chinese Communist Party
The Energy Foundation has significant ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Its CEO and President, Ji Zou, previously served as the deputy director general of China’s National Center for Climate Change Strategy. Other members of the organization have also held high-ranking roles within the Chinese government’s agencies and research institutions. These connections have raised concerns about the CCP’s influence on the American environmental activist movement.
China’s Dominance in Key Green Energy Industries
China’s dominance in key green energy industries, such as lithium-ion batteries and solar panel manufacturing, poses a significant challenge to Western nations. Chinese companies control 75% of global lithium-ion battery production and a significant portion of processing and refining capacity for critical minerals used in EV batteries. China also has over 80% share in all stages of solar panel manufacturing and produces 95% of global supplies of polysilicon, ingots, and wafers necessary for solar products.
Calls for Greater Scrutiny
The revelation of the Energy Foundation’s extensive funding for U.S.-based climate initiatives has prompted calls for greater scrutiny of nonprofits with ties to China. Critics argue that the CCP uses these nonprofits to influence American public opinion and policy decisions, specifically promoting Chinese energy interests and weakening America’s competitiveness. The concerns raised highlight the need for a careful examination of the implications of such financial ties.