View from the top: Sabrina Cheng, founder and CEO of Intellis Corporation and EIC Global Ambassador.

Can you tell us about Intellis? How did it start, and what has been the key to your success?

Intellis Corporation provides specialised technical talent solutions and related services in the energy sector. With 10 offices across Asia-Pacific, we leverage our artificial intelligence (AI) and digital management platform to offer compliant, cost-effective and efficient workforce solutions.

Founded in 2009 by myself and two Dutch engineers, Intellis began as a collaboration between international expertise and local market insight. After my partners relocated, I took full responsibility as CEO.

Success in this industry hinges on reputation and professionalism. I have always prioritised professionalism and long-term development, understanding that true success goes beyond profitability. Strengthening the company’s technical expertise through innovation and technology while building a strong industry reputation has always been at the core of my business philosophy.

When did you expand outside China, and how hard was it to develop your international business?

We began our international expansion in 2018 by establishing Intellis in Singapore. While our operations were primarily in China, 90% of our clients were global enterprises, providing a strong foundation for growth abroad.

Expanding internationally brought new challenges, requiring higher standards in management, operations, legal compliance, finance and team capabilities.

In 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global markets, posing significant challenges. One of our partners in Singapore left for family reasons, slowing our progress. Shifting international dynamics created further obstacles. Adapting to cultural differences and new legal environments while building trust in different regions requires time and continuous learning.

How do energy policies differ between China and other countries?

China’s energy policy is distinct, balancing economic growth, energy security and low-carbon transformation, shaped by its political system, development stage and global positioning.

Rich in resources, the US follows an ‘energy independence’ strategy, with priorities varying between administrations – from fossil fuel expansion to clean energy initiatives. Germany, resource-poor, has shifted from coal, oil and nuclear to green energy through policies such as the Renewable Energy Law. France, once reliant on nuclear power, now pursues renewable energy under the National Action Plan for Renewable Energy in alignment with EU goals.

Japan, with limited resources, once prioritised nuclear power but has pivoted to hydrogen and renewables post-Fukushima, introducing the Basic Hydrogen Energy Strategy. South Korea, also resource-scarce, initially focused on nuclear energy but is now accelerating wind and solar development through a shift toward green and low-carbon policies.

China, historically coal-dependent, has implemented major policies including the Strategy for Energy Production and Consumption Revolution (2016–2030), setting medium and long-term goals for a clean, low-carbon, safe and efficient energy system.

 

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About Sabrina Cheng 

Sabrina Cheng is the founder and CEO of Intellis Corporation, with 15 years’ experience in corporate operations and strategic planning. She has consulted for foreign firms, mentored startups and advised local chambers of commerce in China. Named EIC Global Ambassador in 2024, she has earned multiple business awards. Active in Rotary International, she leads social initiatives. Ms Cheng holds a Master’s degree in Economics from the Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics.

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Do you think the world will achieve net zero by 2050? If not, why not?

The likelihood is low. While major economies such as China, the EU and the US have set net-zero targets for 2050 or beyond, some countries, including India and Indonesia, have even later timelines, and others have yet to establish clear goals.

Reaching net zero will require a fundamental shift in global energy production, transportation and consumption patterns, focusing on rapid expansion of renewable energy, reduced fossil fuel reliance and improved energy efficiency.

This transition will demand significant investment, technological innovation and strong policy support, with collaboration from governments, enterprises and the public around the world. However, challenges such as technological maturity, cost-effectiveness and inconsistent policy implementation are hindering progress.

To reach net zero by 2050, the world must accelerate clean energy development, improve efficiency and strengthen policy enforcement to overcome barriers.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has said that achieving net zero will require a phased approach and the effective implementation of global climate policies. While renewable energy and electrification are crucial to reduce emissions, current adoption rates are insufficient. To reach net zero by 2050, the world must accelerate clean energy development, improve efficiency and strengthen policy enforcement to overcome existing barriers.

What is your view of China’s role in the energy transition in Europe?

China is actively promoting advanced energy solutions such as energy storage and clean hydrogen. It also leads in the fields of advanced nuclear energy, sustainable aviation fuel, and carbon capture, utilisation and storage.

In 2023, China’s investment in clean energy technologies exceeded the combined total of the other top 10 investing countries. More than 60% of this was directed towards renewables and transport electrification, with the rest focusing on power grids, energy storage, nuclear technologies and hard-to-abate sectors.

Beyond domestic deployment, China has become a significant global supplier of clean energy technologies. The IEA predicts that by 2035, China’s clean technology exports will exceed US$340bn, rivalling oil export revenues from Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

China’s continued investment and innovation are not only boosting its own green development, but also having a positive effect on global climate change efforts.

Do you see business risk growing, and how can it be reduced?

Global economic growth is slowing, inflation remains high and raw material prices are fluctuating, while supply disruptions are common. International conflicts and changing regulatory policies, especially around green transformation and AI, add further challenges.

It’s crucial for businesses to anticipate risks and develop proactive strategies. Strengthening risk resilience and adaptability will not only help in navigating challenges but also enable companies to seize new opportunities for growth and development. Preparing for uncertainty is the key to thriving in today’s dynamic market.

Do you face a skills shortage? In what areas, and how will you address these gaps?

China’s supply chain and technological capabilities in oil and gas, offshore engineering, new energy, and petrochemicals have rapidly improved in recent years, but we continue to face challenges in attracting specialised and technical professionals.

To address this, we focus on talent development, having established a strong talent pool to ensure our ongoing success. We actively recruit and cultivate outstanding talent, enabling us to strengthen workforces and drive business expansion and technological innovation. This approach helps us to bridge any skills gaps and maintain a competitive edge.

What do you value most about EIC membership?

As a member company and global ambassador for EIC, I deeply value the association’s esteemed reputation in the energy industry. EIC’s professional capabilities and industry influence are pivotal in helping companies, including ours, build a strong reputation and enhance integration across the energy value chain. Through its vast industry expertise and extensive network, EIC provides crucial support, enabling companies to thrive in a complex market environment.

EIC’s powerful industry research capabilities, data analysis tools and consulting services are invaluable for gaining insights into market trends and potential market opportunities and risks, helping businesses to make informed decisions and address specific challenges, such as policy shifts or technological innovations.

Furthermore, EIC fosters collaboration across the energy ecosystem by facilitating connections between upstream and downstream industrial chains. Its platforms, including industry forums, seminars and exhibitions, promote knowledge-sharing and resource exchange, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing business risks.

Overall, EIC’s continued support strengthens our strategic positioning and provides a platform for growth, allowing us to contribute more effectively to the global energy transition.

How are British and European companies viewed in China in terms of competitiveness, innovation and culture of doing business?

European companies are highly regarded in China for their innovation and technological expertise, particularly in advanced manufacturing and sustainable technologies. Their strong brand presence in these areas commands respect. At the same time, they are also viewed as market competitors, especially with the rise of local Chinese companies in sectors such as digitalisation and new energy, which are reshaping the competitive landscape.

For women in energy, my advice is to prioritise maintaining a positive mindset and a healthy body. Equally important is ensuring the happiness of your family

While differences in business culture exist, these gaps are narrowing through deep localisation efforts and supportive policies such as the Foreign Investment Law. Looking forward, the relationship between Chinese and European companies will continue to evolve into a new dynamic of “coopetition and symbiosis”. Both sides will collaborate in areas such as supply chain optimisation, technology standard setting and green transformation while competing to drive innovation and growth. This will foster mutual benefits and strengthen the global energy transition.

 

 

What are the challenges for companies outside of China that want to do business in China?

The main challenges faced by foreign-funded companies when conducting business in China include intellectual property protection, contractual issues, changes in the international environment, and cost and market uncertainties.

While China has improved intellectual property protection, foreign companies still face challenges in promptly detecting infringements, high enforcement costs and legal complexities. This has dampened their enthusiasm for technology transfer and collaborative research and development. Additionally, cultural, language barriers and business practice differences can lead to misunderstandings in contracts, increasing the risk of disputes.

Shifting global political and economic conditions also create uncertainties. For example, public health crises and country decoupling trends are forcing businesses to reassess their investments and operations in China, raising risks related to supply chains and production costs.

Increasing labour and operational costs, especially with higher environmental standards, add to the challenge. Additionally, fierce competition and rapid market changes require constant adaptation in product offerings and strategies. Regulatory hurdles also complicate market entry, especially in sectors such as finance and technology.

As a successful businesswoman, what lessons can you share with other ‘women in energy’?

My journey is just beginning; I am still growing and learning. For women in energy, my advice is to prioritise maintaining a positive mindset and a healthy body. Equally important is ensuring the happiness of your family – work-life balance plays a significant role in sustaining both personal and professional growth. By nurturing yourself and your loved ones, you are better equipped to navigate the demands of a dynamic and competitive industry.

Which regions of the world provide the best opportunities for your business and why?

The Middle East plays a significant role in the global economy due to its abundant oil and gas resources, which remain crucial to the global economy. As the head of Intellis, I recognise the immense potential this region offers, making it a strategic priority for us, especially in energy projects and technical talent development.

Chinese manufacturing capability is renowned for its efficiency, high quality and cost-effectiveness, supported by a complete industrial chain and a robust supply chain system. The combination of the Middle East’s energy resources and China’s manufacturing strength, along with solid bilateral relations, provides us with a distinct competitive edge in executing energy projects in the region. We are committed to deepening our cooperation with Middle Eastern countries, using our expertise to connect the region with China and offer specialised technical talent services to support our customers.