Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-05 12:48Core Viewpoint - The energy storage sector has transformed into one of the hottest investment areas in the capital market this year, characterized by strong overall performance but significant fluctuations in funding [2][3]. Market Demand - The market demand for energy storage is experiencing explosive growth, with domestic lithium battery shipments reaching 430 GWh in the first three quarters of 2025, surpassing the total for 2024. Global shipments reached 240.21 GWh, a year-on-year increase of 106.1% [4][20]. - Chinese companies secured 308 new overseas energy storage orders totaling 214.7 GWh in the first nine months of 2025, marking a 131.75% increase year-on-year [4][20]. Policy Support - The government has introduced multiple policies to promote high-quality development in the new energy sector since 2025. The National Development and Reform Commission and the National Energy Administration's action plan aims for a new energy storage capacity of over 180 million kilowatts by 2027, driving direct investment of approximately 250 billion yuan [4][20]. Material Prices - Key materials for energy storage, such as lithium hexafluorophosphate, have seen significant price increases, with some market quotes exceeding 150,000 yuan per ton, reflecting a more than 200% rise since July [4][20]. Market Transition - The energy storage sector is shifting from being a "mandatory allocation" to an "economic choice," marking a significant change in the industry's profitability model. The cancellation of mandatory storage requirements allows energy storage to participate as an independent market entity [5][21]. Revenue Models - As the electricity market reforms deepen, energy storage is transitioning from a cost burden to a profitable asset. Projects in leading provinces can now establish diverse revenue models, significantly enhancing profitability [6][22]. Supply and Demand Dynamics - The previous oversupply and low-price competition are easing, with sustained market demand leading to full production capacity among leading battery manufacturers and stabilization of raw material prices [7][23]. Company Performance - Several companies in the energy storage sector have reported significant earnings growth. For instance, CATL's net profit reached 49.034 billion yuan in the first three quarters of 2025, a 36.2% increase year-on-year [9][25]. - Long-term funds have increased their holdings in energy storage stocks, with 11 stocks receiving support from social security funds, indicating investor confidence in the sector's long-term prospects [10][26]. Institutional Interest - The interest from institutional investors has surged, with 17 energy storage stocks receiving attention from over a hundred institutions since October, further boosting stock performance [11][27].