NEA Deploys Major Tasks: Accelerating R&D and Application of Flexible Grid-Forming, Long-Duration Energy Storage and Other New Grid Technologies

During the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), China's electricity demand is expected to maintain annual growth of around 5%, with the share of new energy further increasing, placing higher demands on the construction of the new-type power grid. On September 1, the National Energy Administration (NEA) convened a deployment meeting on new-type power grid construction, comprehensively assigning major tasks that will strongly support both near-term investment promotion and long-term structural adjustment.

New-type power grid construction links upstream projects such as new energy power generation on one end and downstream electricity consumption by commercial, industrial, and residential users on the other, generating strong multiplier effects and an enormous investment scale.

The NEA outlined four priorities:

Consolidate Infrastructure Strengths

Build a new coordinated grid architecture integrating the main grid, distribution networks, and microgrids that enhances the safety and stability of the large power grid, fully leverages the distribution network's role as a public platform, and promotes flexible, diversified interaction among smart microgrids.

Lead with Innovation

Accelerate the R&D and application of new grid technologies including Artificial Intelligence Plus (AI+), flexible grid-forming, intelligent dispatch and control, and long-duration energy storage, and develop new quality productive forces.

Strengthen Diversified Support

Upgrade new grid services that are friendly to emerging business forms such as efficient grid connection and accommodation of new energy, high-quality power supply, and compute-power coordination, better meeting the needs of industrial development and the public.

Hold the Safety Bottom Line

Ensure safe and stable operation of the large power grid, strengthen project safety and quality management, enhance grid disaster prevention and emergency response capabilities, and improve safety resilience.

Going forward, the NEA will accelerate the approval and construction of major grid projects such as transmission corridors. Grid companies should advance project construction with lean management and fully leverage the investment-driving role of major projects, while local energy authorities should expedite the processing of supporting permits. Overall coordination of new-type power grid construction will be strengthened.