The global contest for superpower status has increasingly focused on energy, with China emerging as an 'electrostate' and the US defending its position as a 'hydrocarbon hegemon.' China prioritizes electricity for its economy, despite being a major energy producer and importer.

Given that control over energy reinforces superpower status, the contest of the century has morphed into an intense rivalry between China, a rising “electrostate”, and the United States, the world’s hydrocarbon hegemon safeguarding its position. China recognises that electricity drives its economy. Despite being a major producer of coal, crude oil and natural gas, China remains an importer of these hydrocarbons. However, with strategic patience, through its five-year plans, the country has been....