Editor's note: Lu Jiajun is a researcher at the Academy of Financial Research and Zhejiang International Base for Science & Technology Exchange: Fintech and Big Data Analysis, and an assistant professor at Zhejiang University International Business School. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

As the global economy undergoes a digital transformation and the demand for green development grows, cooperation between China and Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and green energy has become a crucial driver for mutual growth in technology, economy, and environmental sustainability. By combining AI technology with green energy, both sides can effectively leverage their comparative advantages to foster sustainable development and accelerate the response to global climate change challenges.

Synergistic effects of AI and green energy

The integration of AI and green energy has not only driven the global transition to a green economy but also offered new solutions for sustainable development in LAC regions. As a global leader in AI, China has pioneered innovations in big data, machine learning, smart grids, and electric transportation, providing technological support for the intelligent management and efficient utilization of green energy. AI, through large-scale data analysis and predictive modeling, has significantly enhanced the efficiency of energy capture, storage, and distribution. For instance, in the smart grid sector, AI can monitor electricity demand and supply in real-time, dynamically adjusting power flows, reducing energy waste, and increasing the integration of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. This is particularly important for LAC countries rich in wind energy resources, such as Brazil and Chile, as it helps avoid the limitations of traditional energy dispatch systems, ensuring grid flexibility and stability.

Comparative advantages in AI and green energy cooperation

China has accumulated substantial experience in AI and technological innovation, particularly in areas like intelligent energy management, smart cities, and low-carbon transportation systems. LAC countries, on the other hand, possess abundant natural resources, especially in solar, wind, and hydropower. By combining China's AI expertise with LAC's renewable energy resources, both sides can form a complementary partnership. China's AI can help improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in LAC countries, while LAC's abundant resources provide a broad market and innovative testing ground for China's technology. In the field of green energy, the introduction of AI can greatly enhance both energy production and consumption efficiency. For example, AI-optimized energy management systems can enable more precise resource allocation for solar and wind projects in LAC countries, reduce energy wastage, and improve grid stability and reliability. Furthermore, AI can promote the development of smart electric transportation, optimizing the distribution and usage of electric vehicle charging stations through data analytics, thereby further supporting low-carbon mobility.

Advancing China-LAC AI and green energy cooperation

Cooperation between China and LAC countries in AI and green energy not only relies on technological support but also requires an effective policy framework. China's Belt and Road Initiative and Digital Silk Road Initiative have provided policy backing for China-LAC cooperation, especially in the areas of technology transfer, industrial chain cooperation, and green investment. LAC countries have also been gradually improving their policies for digital transformation and green development. For instance, countries like Brazil and Argentina have introduced policies supporting renewable energy projects and the application of intelligent technologies, particularly in promoting renewable energy projects, electric vehicle adoption, and smart grid construction. Through policy alignment, both sides can enhance green financing and technology collaboration, which will foster widespread application of green technologies to ensure the achievement of sustainable development goals.

Challenges and outlook

While the potential for China-LAC cooperation in AI and green energy is enormous, several challenges remain. Firstly, technological barriers and talent shortages continue to be major obstacles to cooperation. LAC countries, compared to China, still lag behind in terms of AI technology and green energy research and development capabilities, necessitating further technical training and knowledge transfer. Secondly, policy coordination and cultural differences may cause friction during the cooperation process, particularly in areas like technology standards and data protection. To address these challenges, both sides should strengthen cross-nation cooperation mechanisms, promote joint research and development projects, and invest in talent training and technical exchanges. Additionally, cooperation between governments and the private sector will be crucial in driving AI and green energy projects forward, particularly in areas such as innovative financing tools and green investments. Looking ahead, China-LAC cooperation will play an increasingly important role in responding to global climate change, promoting green development, and advancing the digital economy transformation. By combining China's technological advantages with LAC's resource strengths, both sides can make more active contributions to the global sustainable development goals.