当风电光伏唱主角，谁来做电网的“稳定器”？

Core Insights - China is rapidly building a new power system dominated by renewable energy under the "dual carbon" goals, with pumped storage hydropower entering a golden period of development [1] - As of the end of 2024, China's cumulative installed capacity of pumped storage will reach 58.69 million kilowatts, accounting for over 30% of the global total, maintaining the world's leading position for nine consecutive years [1] - The industry faces challenges such as the need for enhanced capacity and technology, improved electricity pricing mechanisms, and insufficient collaboration within the supply chain [1] Functional Restructuring - Pumped storage is evolving from merely being a "regulator" to becoming a "stabilizer" for the entire power system, reflecting the strategic elevation of its technology [2] - The integration of high proportions of renewable energy has introduced new challenges, necessitating a shift in pumped storage's role to provide system stability support [2] - Pumped storage's advantages include large capacity, rapid response, and operational flexibility, making it essential for enhancing grid resilience [2] Regional Practices - Different regions in China showcase the diverse roles of pumped storage, such as ensuring power supply safety during extreme weather in Northeast China and peak shaving in North China during heating periods [3] - The operational model of pumped storage is transforming from simple cycles to more flexible operations, enhancing its adaptability to fluctuations in renewable energy output and load changes [3] Industry Chain Development - China has established a comprehensive pumped storage industry chain, with significant advancements in design, equipment manufacturing, and construction [4][5] - The industry is experiencing rapid expansion, but structural bottlenecks are emerging, including mismatches between capacity and demand, and challenges in talent and resource allocation [5] - The industry is transitioning from a focus on construction to a more balanced approach that includes operation and talent development [5] Path to Breakthrough - To address the challenges, a systematic approach is needed, including a planning system that balances resource allocation and demand, and fostering innovation in technology and equipment [6] - Enhancing cross-sector collaboration and comprehensive regulation is essential to avoid the pitfalls of focusing too heavily on construction [6] Development Paradigm - The pumped storage industry is at a crossroads, requiring a collaborative approach among policy, technology, and market forces to ensure sustainable development [7] - A robust policy framework, particularly the "two-part electricity price" mechanism established in 2021, is crucial for providing stability [7] - The industry must adapt to market changes, including the establishment of a composite revenue model that incorporates capacity fees and auxiliary service income [7][8] Future Outlook - The integration of digital technologies is transforming the entire industry chain, enhancing operational efficiency and system intelligence [8] - The acceleration of the national unified electricity market is reshaping the operational ecosystem for pumped storage, creating multiple revenue channels [8][9] - Future efforts should focus on refining market rules and establishing pricing mechanisms that reflect the system support value of pumped storage [9]