China produces more clean energy than any other country. Now it's rolling out an ultra-high-voltage grid to match – will its strategy of going big pay off?

Summary

China leads the world in ultra-high-voltage (UHV) power transmission, with 48,000km of UHV lines connecting remote renewable energy sources, like wind, solar, and hydropower, to urban centers.

UHV lines minimize energy loss over long distances, earning them the nickname “bullet trains for power.”

Initially designed for coal and hydro, these lines now support China’s renewable energy expansion.

However, challenges remain, including high costs, dependence on coal for stability, and limited local integration.

Globally, countries like Brazil and India are adopting UHV, but regulatory and cost barriers hinder broader deployment, especially in the U.S.