Published: 15 February 2026
Introduction. The energy sector is a fundamental basis for the economic development and social stability of any country. For Russia, which has significant energy resources, and China, which is the world leader in energy consumption, ensuring the sustainable development of the energy sector is a strategic task for national security. The current state of the energy sector in both countries is characterized by a combination of unique opportunities and systemic challenges. In Russia, the key challenges remain the high level of depreciation of fixed assets, the need for large-scale modernization, and the growing domestic demand. China, which has achieved impressive results in the development of renewable energy sources, faces the challenge of integrating vast new capacities into its energy system and promoting domestic consumption of green energy. In the context of the global transformation of energy markets and the climate agenda, bilateral cooperation between Russia and China is becoming increasingly important, going beyond simple energy trade and becoming a tool for joint technological development and strengthening energy security. Purpose. To provide a comprehensive assessment of the state and prospects for the development of the energy sectors in Russia and China, as well as to identify key areas, potential, and possible barriers to their bilateral strategic cooperation in the energy sector.Materials and methods. The study used the following methods: analysis of statistical data and official reports, comparative analysis, a systematic approach, and analysis of strategic planning documents: assessment of long-term goals and programs, such as the Russian Energy Strategy until 2050 and China's five-year energy development plans.Results. 1. Assessment of the state of the industries: Russia has a high level of physical deterioration of equipment in generation (up to 65%) and networks. The need for modernization and new capacities by 2042 is estimated at 88.5 GW, with coal-fired generation dominating the plans (116 units). Unprecedented growth in solar industry has been achieved in China (more than 1 thousand GW) and wind (540 GW) energy, which provided technological leadership and reduced equipment costs. However, dependence on coal remains and modernization of networks is required. 2. Analysis of cooperation: Three stable vectors of bilateral interaction have been identified: Commodity (gas, oil, coal): Russia has become the main supplier of oil and one of the key suppliers of gas to China. The Power of Siberia project and the planned Power of Siberia 2 project form a stable infrastructure base; Technological (nuclear energy): Russian technologies and experience in the construction of nuclear power plants (Tianwan, Xudapu) are critical for the implementation of China's nuclear power generation development programs. Potential (Renewable Energy and New Technologies): There is a significant untapped potential for joint projects in solar and wind energy generation in Russia, utilizing Chinese equipment and investments, as well as in hydrogen energy and energy storage systems.Conclusions. The energy complexes of Russia and China are at different stages of development, but Russia has large-scale resources and needs to be modernized, while China has advanced technologies and finances and needs stable supplies. 1. Strategic bilateral cooperation in the energy sector has already moved from simple trade to deep infrastructure and technological integration (gas pipelines, nuclear power plants). This creates a stable interdependence that enhances the energy security of both countries. 2. The most promising areas for further development of cooperation are: Joint projects in the field of renewable energy sources in Russia; Cooperation in the field of modernization and digital transformation of distribution networks; Joint research and projects in the field of new technologies (hydrogen, energy storage, and smart grid).