The difference between the US and China as seen thru the electric grid
So what does it look like to build a high voltage transmission network (think those large metal structures and wires you see near the highways) in the US vs. China?
In China, it takes the Government declaring it to be built. The Government then acquires the land and hires the contractors.
In the US, private developers or utilities have a longer process. First, they must gain approval by each state (sometimes each county) along with the Federal Government and each landowner. Then raise the money necessary to design and build it. Needless to say, China can move faster in constructing such infrastructure.
Both countries are in the process of constructing transmission networks connecting the areas where high wind and solar production are possible to the cities/factories where that power is needed. This is an enormous undertaking by both countries.
The only way that either country can reduce its dependence on fossil fuel generated electricity is first to construct transmission towers to bring the solar/wind generated energy to where it is needed.
China’s approach might be quicker but it comes at a cost of fair markets, environmental consideration and public vs. private economies.
Both countries will pursue renewable energy development and the global environment should benefit by reducing greenhouse gases. The pace of the change will be interesting to watch.
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Additional Information:
http://www.vox.com/2016/3/30/11332900/china-long-distance-transmission