The Energy Revolution We’re Ignoring (And Why It Matters)
October 19, 2025 – Welcome to Reading & Podcast Picks, your weekly dose of thought-provoking insights on energy trends, innovations, and the global shifts reshaping our world. This week, we’re diving into topics that are both eye-opening and, frankly, a little uncomfortable. But here’s where it gets controversial: while we’re busy debating domestic policies, a seismic shift in global energy leadership is happening right under our noses—and it’s not in the U.S.
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The Great Reckoning by Kaiser Kuo – The Ideas Letter Read here
This is not an easy read, but it’s an essential one. Kaiser Kuo paints a stark picture of China’s unprecedented transformation across industries—from biotech to renewable energy, from robotics to EVs. In conversations with professionals in Beijing, a recurring theme emerges: the scale and speed of China’s advancements are virtually incomprehensible to those who haven’t witnessed them firsthand. And this is the part most people miss: the disconnect between China’s rapid progress and the West’s perceived urgency (or lack thereof) is staggering.
Bold statement alert: If you’re discussing energy without addressing China’s achievements, you’re missing the biggest story of our time. China’s dominance in renewables, EVs, and grid infrastructure is not just impressive—it’s historically unparalleled. Meanwhile, the U.S. is struggling to keep pace, adding a terawatt of power every two decades while China does it in just two to three years. This isn’t just a competition; it’s a reckoning for American leadership.
As an American, this is deeply unsettling. Our political divisions and complacency have blinded us to the reality that another system, despite its flaws, is delivering results we can’t ignore. Retired diplomat Chas W. Freeman puts it bluntly: Americans are caught in a paradox of “self-doubt, complacency, and hubris.” But denial won’t solve the problem. We need a clear-eyed assessment—and fast.
Controversial question: Are we willing to admit that China’s success challenges our assumptions about innovation and leadership? Or will we double down on denial? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Factors Influencing Recent Trends in Retail Electricity Prices in the U.S. – Lawrence Berkeley National Labs Download here
This report is a must-read for anyone trying to make sense of electricity prices. Here’s the kicker: it’s not as simple as supply and demand. Extreme weather, grid resilience, natural gas prices—all play a role. But one finding stands out: market-based renewables (wind and solar) consistently drive prices down. It’s baffling that this is still debated see counterpoint here.
Key takeaway: Those alarming charts showing skyrocketing electricity costs? They often ignore inflation and lack historical context. Adjusted for inflation, the national average electricity price in 2024 was lower than in 2010. But here’s the catch: residential customers have seen steeper increases than commercial and industrial users. Why? That’s a discussion for another day—or maybe right now in the comments.
Final thought-provoking question: As renewables become more market-driven, who stands to benefit—and who gets left behind? Share your thoughts below. Let’s keep the conversation going.
