Apple COO Sabih Khan made his first visit to China's supply chain on October 14, 2025, highlighting the company's efforts to advance sustainable manufacturing at key suppliers. The visit included stops at AAC Technologies Holdings and Lens Technology, underscoring Apple's ongoing commitment to achieving carbon neutrality.
Khan announced a CNY1 billion (US$140.15 million) new energy fund, jointly launched by Apple's Chinese suppliers, aimed at supporting renewable energy infrastructure. The fund aspires to help Apple reach full carbon neutrality across its supply chain by 2030.
During the visit—his first since replacing Jeff Williams as COO in July 2025—Khan emphasized the critical role China's supply chain plays in Apple's environmental goals. Reports from The Paper and Sina Tech noted that more than 90% of Apple's production in China already utilizes renewable energy, signaling progress toward sustainability targets.
Apple's new fund targets expanding clean power generation in China
The newly established energy fund will be co-managed by the China International Capital Corporation (CICC) and Huaneng Group and aims to add approximately 1 million MWh of clean electricity to the Chinese grid by 2030. Investments have been made by a number of prominent Apple suppliers, including battery maker ATL, Avary, Suzhou Dongshan Precision, Foxconn, and Yutong Technology, reflecting deep industry collaboration.
At AAC Technologies' Changzhou factory, Khan inspected the production line for heat spreader modules used in the iPhone 17 Pro series. AAC chairman Benjamin Pan highlighted the company's 17-year partnership with Apple and its advancements in automation and ultra-thin heat spreader technology. AAC has also integrated 100% recycled copper materials in its new products, marking a significant step in green manufacturing practices.
Lens Technology's Taizhou facility also welcomed Khan, where he observed the iPhone 17 production line. Lens chairman Zhou Qunfei noted the company supplies essential components for multiple Apple devices, including the iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro. He emphasized that Lens's China operations have reached full reliance on renewable energy sources.
Apple's longstanding commitment to clean energy in China
Since launching its Supplier Clean Energy Program in 2015, Apple has collaborated extensively with Chinese partners to share technology and expertise focused on sustainability. The company's first China Clean Energy Fund, established in 2018, successfully funded renewable projects with a combined capacity exceeding 1 GW across 14 provinces.
Earlier this year, Apple introduced a second clean energy fund valued at CNY720 million to strengthen its green manufacturing footprint. These initiatives form part of Apple's broader strategy to transform its global supply chain toward greater environmental responsibility and meet ambitious carbon-neutral goals by 2030.
Article edited by Jerry Chen
