Greenville Reporter

Today, Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. expressed his concerns regarding the usage of Chinese batteries on Camp Lejeune, after meeting with representatives of Duke Energy. It was revealed that in 2014, the Obama administration invited Duke Energy to install Chinese-made batteries for energy storage in a solar facility on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

Congressman Murphy questioned the decision protocols of the Department of Defense that allowed such a thing to happen on a military base. He attributed this issue to the transition to sustainable energy on military installations initiated by former President Obama and accelerated by President Biden. Congressman Murphy stated, "This troubling revelation...makes me question my faith in the Department of Defense's decision protocols...A meeting today with Duke Energy was very productive in relaying my concerns."

Highlighting the national security concerns, Congressman Murphy emphasized China's continuous efforts to undermine the United States. He referred to the recent incident where a Chinese spy balloon was allowed by the Biden administration to collect sensitive data, including military bases. Congressman Murphy expressed his disappointment in the Biden administration's willingness to overlook national security concerns in pursuit of clean energy. He stated, "The CCP has no better friend in the United States right now than the leadership in the Biden Administration."

However, Congressman Murphy provided an update on the situation, stating that he had been assured by Duke Energy that the batteries were taken offline last week. He expressed gratitude for the aggressive oversight of Senator Marco Rubio and Chairman Mike Gallagher on this critical issue.

As the representative of Onslow County and Camp Lejeune, Congressman Murphy made it clear that he will closely monitor the situation. He stated firmly, "I will not stand for the infiltration of our military by the Chinese Communist Party."

In the background, it was revealed that batteries manufactured by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., a company funded and supported by the Chinese Communist Party, were installed at Camp Lejeune. Members of the House Armed Services Committee and Senate Armed Services Committee sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Austin, highlighting this issue.

Today, Congressman Murphy met with representatives from Duke Energy to address his concerns, seek their cooperation, and receive assurance that the batteries were taken offline. He emphasized the potential national security threat posed by this situation to the military and the United States.

The meeting with Duke Energy is a step towards addressing the issue and ensuring the safety and security of military installations. Congressman Murphy's vigilance and commitment to protecting national security are commendable, as he continues to advocate for the best interests of the United States.

Click this link to access more information: https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-meets-duke-energy-chinese-batteries-used-camp-lejeune