电价大改下，湖南工商业储能“变天”？

Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment of the time-of-use electricity pricing policy in Hunan province is expected to impact the operational strategies of existing grid-connected energy storage projects and the investment decisions for future commercial energy storage projects in the region [2][5][7]. Summary by Sections Policy Changes - The new time-of-use pricing policy will be implemented starting August 1, 2025, and will last for five years [5]. - Key changes include the optimization of peak and valley periods, with a reduction in peak hours and an expansion of the policy's applicability to commercial users with a capacity of 100 kVA or below [2][5]. - The adjustment is projected to release an additional 3 million kW of electricity demand [2]. Impact on Energy Storage Projects - The new pricing structure may lower the cost of electricity for commercial users, potentially reducing the incentive for companies to invest in energy storage solutions [5]. - The continuous 16-hour low valley period may lead to fewer opportunities for peak-valley arbitrage, extending the payback period for energy storage projects [5][7]. - The economic model for energy storage projects in Hunan may need to be restructured due to reduced actual arbitrage space compared to theoretical values [7]. Recent Developments in Energy Storage Projects - Two significant energy storage projects have recently been connected to the grid in Hunan, including the 88 MW/163.68 MWh project by China Kangfu and the 20.7 MW/120 MWh project by Lixing Energy [9][12]. - The total capacity of energy storage projects connected in Hunan since 2025 has reached 376.689 MWh, surpassing the total capacity of the previous year [15][16]. - The projects are characterized by relatively small individual capacities, with over 50% being below 10 MWh [16]. Companies Involved - Key players in the Hunan energy storage market include China Kangfu, Lixing Energy, and several others involved in various projects [17].