Uncovering the Truth: MI5 Probes Chinese Green Technology’s Role in the UK

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Britain is reviewing how China’s rising influence impacts its energy system. This comes as concerns grow about Chinese control over essential infrastructure.

MI5 is involved in assessing whether the use of Chinese technologies, like solar panels and industrial batteries, could pose future security risks.

As the UK aims to move away from fossil fuels, there’s increasing unease about China’s dominance in the supply chains for key technologies vital for decarbonization.

Officials worry about the risk of sensitive data being accessed by the Chinese government and potential oversight of crucial energy resources.

This review is part of a larger examination of UK-China relations, with findings expected later this year.

“The spooks are looking into it,” noted one government official. “It connects to our industrial strategy and overall supply chain security.”

MI5’s director-general, Ken McCallum, stated last month that the agency has been focused on supply chain security for quite some time.

This week, MPs debated plans for the Chinese company Mingyang to supply wind turbines for a floating offshore wind project called Green Volt in Scotland.

While Mingyang is privately owned, some worry that Beijing could still influence corporate decisions.

Energy minister Kerry McCarthy assured MPs that national security is a priority in assessing China’s role in critical infrastructure investments.

Shadow energy secretary Andrew Bowie called it “unthinkable” to ignore the security risks of using Chinese-made turbines for UK wind farms.

Reports surfaced that the Ministry of Defence fears Green Volt could enable spying through the turbines.

Bowie expressed concerns about relying on Chinese technology for updates and maintenance, which may give Beijing opportunities for interference.

The review of UK-China relations is conducted by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, aiming to manage a balance between economic engagement and security safeguards.

Labour has ramped up diplomatic activity, with ministers visiting China recently, and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer plans a trip later this year.

However, the government previously used the National Security and Investment Act to force a Chinese investor to divest from a UK semiconductor firm.

The developers of Green Volt, Vargronn and Flotation Energy, have yet to confirm Mingyang as a turbine supplier.

They stated they are exploring partnerships and will comply with government regulations regarding security in critical infrastructure.”

Mingyang has expressed interest in opening a turbine manufacturing facility in Scotland if chosen as a supplier, with support from the Treasury noted in this endeavor.

The UK aims to decarbonize its energy sector by 2030, necessitating a surge in renewable technologies.

Officials are particularly wary of the control systems used for operating turbines and keeping them aligned with the wind.

The Green Volt case reflects Britain’s mixed strategies regarding China in sensitive sectors.

The government previously mandated a state-run Chinese firm to divest from its stake in a planned power station, although that company remains involved with another in Somerset.

Bowie noted it is troubling that the Treasury seems to favor Mingyang’s involvement.

“This green revolution may have a ‘made in China’ label,” he remarked. “Having Chinese-controlled technology in our energy infrastructure poses a serious security risk.”

The government insists it is rigorously evaluating China’s role in supply chains and infrastructure investment, emphasizing that national security will always come first.

Reducing Chinese participation in the UK’s renewable supply chain poses challenges, given China’s strong position in batteries and solar panels, even though wind farm reliance is currently low.

“We risk a situation like Huawei,” noted an official, referring to the UK’s decision to ban Huawei from its 5G network.

“The renewables sector heavily depends on Chinese supplies.”

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