GE's Chinese research and development centers are getting the nod from GE leadership as they make the move from a supporting role to lead on research projects to develop cutting edge technologies - such as healthcare, and yes, clean energy technology - that are targeted to both the Chinese and global markets:
The increased competition for GE from local companies in China is due in part to a massive push by the Chinese government to promote clean energy and R&D. In recent years, it has rolled out a range of renewable energy targets and financial incentives, including significant tax breaks for companies that invest in research related to energy...
The GE research center has also been key for the development of wind-power technology, including power electronics hardware and software that allow wind turbines to keep operating after lightning strikes and other events cause sudden drops in voltage on the power grid. The center has now produced 20 patents in this general area, says Yunfeng Liu, the manager of GE's power conversion lab in Shanghai. Such technology can also make the grid more stable than it would be without the presence of wind turbines, by helping to maintain the necessary voltages and frequencies on transmission lines.
Further Reading:
"IBM's R&D Investment in China Debunks Claim that R&D Will Stay in U.S."
World Leader in Innovation: China?
