Cao Tianlan, a deputy to the National People’s Congress (NPC) and chief engineer at Dongfang Electric Corporation’s turbine company, has called for the high-end, green and smart transformation of China’s energy equipment sector.
During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China has accelerated its innovation-driven strategies in science, technology and manufacturing to support its carbon peaking and neutrality goals, providing strong momentum for energy equipment manufacturers to drive high-quality development through advanced productivity.
NPC deputy Cao Tianlan [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
Cao emphasized the need to strengthen the industrial foundation to support high-end equipment manufacturing. Addressing key weaknesses in basic industries, she called for increased support for domestic R&D and large-scale application of core technologies. She also highlighted the importance of leveraging AI and other innovations to enhance supply chain independence and bolster the nation’s industrial system.
Cao further proposed leveraging national strategic advantages to build a high-end equipment ecosystem, encouraging enterprises to increase R&D investments and enhance competitiveness. Expanding recognition policies for first-of-its-kind equipment and strengthening application promotion through multi-layered insurance mechanisms would help accelerate technological adoption.
Cao emphasized leveraging the Belt and Road Initiative to support domestic firms in overseas energy infrastructure projects. Encouraging enterprise collaboration, promoting Chinese standards internationally, and actively engaging in global standardization efforts would enhance China’s competitiveness in high-end energy equipment.
She also underscored the importance of cultivating a skilled and innovative workforce through industry-education integration platforms and modern apprenticeship programs. She said that setting up public training bases and a dedicated talent development fund for key technical fields, along with improving career pathways and incentive mechanisms, would enhance the professional recognition of industrial workers.
(Executive editor: Wang Ruoting)
