The inclusion of new energy storage in the latest Government Work Report highlights its growing significance.
Source: China Energy News
The inclusion of new energy storage in the latest Government Work Report highlights its growing significance. During China’s annual Two Sessions, Gao Jifan, a deputy to the National People's Congress and Chairman of Trina Solar, stressed that as solar energy moves toward full market-based trading, energy storage has become essential. "Solar power needs to be stored during times of surplus and used when supply is limited. These two systems work hand in hand, with solar power driving the demand for energy storage," said Gao.
Gao emphasized that in the development of a modern energy system, new energy storage technologies are crucial as they support and regulate the energy supply. This not only promotes the effective use of renewable energy but is also vital for achieving China's dual-carbon goals. As the industry continues to advance, energy storage is increasingly driving innovation, boosting domestic demand, enhancing talent development, and fostering international cooperation.
"There is an inherent 'time asymmetry' between solar generation and energy demand," explained Gao. "Solar power is mostly generated during the day, while energy needs fluctuate throughout the day." As solar energy has become China’s second-largest power source and is expected to play a more prominent role in the future, this mismatch is becoming more pronounced, creating a strong demand for the rapid development of new energy storage technologies.
By the end of 2024, China had installed 73.76 GW/168 GWh of new energy storage capacity, which is 20 times the capacity at the end of the 13th Five-Year Plan and more than 130% higher than in 2023. According to grid companies, new energy storage is expected to provide around 1,000 equivalent usage hours in 2024, playing a key role in integrating renewable energy, ensuring peak supply, and maintaining grid stability. With growing market demand and high expansion expectations, energy storage shipments are set to double in 2025 compared to the previous year.
Looking forward, solar-storage integration will become increasingly common, Gao predicted. The comprehensive development of solar and energy storage systems will create interconnected zero-carbon applications, paving the way for an entirely new energy future. “At Trina Solar, we are not just participants but also leaders in this shift. We believe that the integration of solar and energy storage will lead to a zero-carbon future,” concluded Gao.
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