中经评论：从储能热潮看长期价值

Core Viewpoint - The energy storage industry is experiencing a significant surge in demand, contrasting sharply with the previous two years of declining prices for storage systems. This shift is driven by a supply-demand imbalance, with domestic and international factors contributing to the increased demand for energy storage solutions [1][2][3]. Demand Side Summary - The domestic market has set a target of over 180 million kilowatts for energy storage installations through the "New Type Energy Storage Scale Construction Special Action Plan (2025-2027)," providing a strong impetus for market growth [1]. - Various provinces are introducing or planning capacity price compensation mechanisms, and the ongoing market-oriented reform of renewable energy grid prices is clarifying the revenue models for energy storage [1]. - The application of large battery cell technology has improved the economic viability of energy storage systems, leading to increased investment willingness from companies [1]. - Internationally, Europe is facing urgent demand for energy storage to stabilize electricity prices and ensure grid reliability, while emerging markets in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific are rapidly developing, creating a synchronized demand scenario [1]. Supply Side Summary - The supply side is currently unable to keep pace with the surging demand due to the long production cycles of upstream materials such as anode and cathode materials and electrolytes, which cannot be rapidly expanded in the short term [2]. - Different application scenarios have varying requirements for battery cell energy density and cycle life, leading to a shortage of specialized production capacity and exacerbating the battery supply shortage [2]. Long-term Industry Trends - The current enthusiasm for energy storage is a natural outcome of the development stage of the renewable energy industry, as energy storage helps to stabilize the grid and mitigate issues related to the intermittent nature of wind and solar power [2][3]. - Energy storage has transitioned from being an optional strategy for power generation companies to a necessary component, enabling them to meet grid connection requirements and reduce losses from curtailment while expanding revenue channels through market participation [2]. - The strategic value of energy storage is becoming increasingly recognized, as it plays a crucial role in ensuring grid safety, promoting renewable energy consumption, and enhancing energy efficiency [3]. Future Outlook - The current "one cell is hard to find" situation may ease as supply and demand balance out, but the long-term development of the energy storage industry is just beginning [4]. - Companies should focus on technological innovation and sustainable business models rather than solely on short-term capacity expansion and price benefits [4]. - The energy storage industry's growth is vital for advancing energy transition goals and ensuring national energy security, with the market's current heat reflecting a re-evaluation of the value of energy storage [4].