国家能源局就“负电价”问题答每经问：不等于电厂要向用电企业倒贴钱

Core Viewpoint - The National Energy Administration (NEA) emphasizes that the increasing frequency of negative electricity prices is a reflection of the growing share of renewable energy and the improved operation of provincial spot markets, rather than indicating that power plants are paying consumers [1][2]. Group 1: Negative Electricity Prices - Negative electricity prices are becoming more frequent due to the increasing proportion of renewable energy installations and the more robust operation of provincial spot markets [2][3]. - Negative electricity prices reflect a temporary imbalance in supply and demand, particularly when supply exceeds demand significantly, as seen in regions like Sichuan where supply was nearly 40% higher than demand [2]. - Short-term negative electricity prices can serve as a market signal to encourage adjustments in power generation and investments in energy storage [2][3]. Group 2: Impact on Power Plants - Negative electricity prices do not equate to power plants needing to pay consumers, as the overall impact on power plant revenues is limited due to long-term contracts and government subsidies [3]. - For instance, the average settlement price for hydropower in Sichuan was 183 yuan per megawatt-hour, which was higher than the monthly average of 177 yuan, indicating that power plants can still maintain profitability despite negative prices [3]. Group 3: Future Directions for Renewable Energy - The NEA aims to expand renewable energy supply significantly, with targets set for 2035 to have non-fossil energy exceed 30% of the energy mix and a total installed capacity of wind and solar reaching 3.6 billion kilowatts [4]. - Key initiatives include enhancing the integration of renewable energy, promoting offshore wind power development, and expanding distributed renewable energy applications [4][5]. - The NEA plans to improve market mechanisms to support high proportions of renewable energy, ensuring stable returns for investors while managing risks effectively [5].