“空气充电宝”来了｜年中能源观察

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the rapid development and commercialization of new energy storage technologies in China, particularly focusing on compressed air energy storage (CAES) as a significant player in the energy sector, with projections indicating a substantial increase in installed capacity by 2025 [1][8]. Industry Overview - By mid-2025, China's new energy storage installed capacity is expected to reach approximately 95 million kilowatts, representing nearly a 30-fold increase over five years [1]. - New energy storage technologies include lithium-ion batteries, flow batteries, compressed air storage, and flywheel storage, with a notable emphasis on the diversification of storage solutions [2][5]. Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) - Recent advancements in CAES technology are making the concept of a "super charging treasure" a reality, with significant projects underway [3]. - The world's highest pressure CAES facility has successfully completed technology verification in Changsha, Hunan Province, marking a breakthrough in artificial cavern gas storage technology [4]. - CAES operates by using surplus or low-cost electricity to compress air, which is then stored under high pressure and released during peak demand, facilitating a "power-energy-power" conversion process [5]. Technological Developments - CAES technology has evolved through various stages, from 1 megawatt in 2013 to 300 megawatts with the recent projects, indicating a trend towards larger-scale applications [8]. - The CAES systems can be categorized into underground, ground, and underwater storage methods, with the Changsha project being a leading example of advanced artificial cavern storage technology [6]. Market Growth and Investment - The number of CAES projects and their bidding scale in China has significantly increased, with 14 projects initiated in the first five months of the year, totaling 4.1 GW/18.7 GWh, a 33.3% increase from the previous year [9]. - The market for CAES core equipment is projected to reach 18.5 billion yuan by 2025 and could surge to 85.4 billion yuan by 2030, driven by rapid industrial advancement and technological maturity [9]. Policy and Commercialization - The inclusion of new energy storage in government work reports since 2024 has positively impacted the CAES industry, leading to increased capacity and scale [8][10]. - CAES projects have begun participating in peak summer electricity supply, demonstrating their operational capabilities and integration into the energy grid [11].