《关于促进光热发电规模化发展的若干意见》解读之三︱光热发电规模化发展的“布局”与“破局”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant potential for the large-scale development of solar thermal power generation in China, emphasizing the supportive policies and strategic direction provided by the recent government document titled "Several Opinions on Promoting the Large-Scale Development of Solar Thermal Power Generation" [2][5]. Group 1: Foundation for Large-Scale Development - Solar thermal power generation has established a solid foundation for large-scale development, with significant advancements made during the "Eleventh Five-Year" and "Twelfth Five-Year" periods, leading to a rapid increase in installed capacity and the establishment of a complete industrial chain with independent intellectual property rights [4]. - As of the "Fourteenth Five-Year" period, the installed capacity of solar thermal power generation reached approximately 1.62 million kilowatts, ranking third globally, with about 2.7 million kilowatts of projects under construction [4]. Group 2: Support for New Power Systems - The operation of the first batch of solar thermal demonstration projects has validated its unique advantages in stable and reliable power output, making it comparable to coal-fired power plants, with peak shaving rates reaching 10% per minute and continuous operation for up to 230 days [6][7]. - The "Several Opinions" document emphasizes optimizing the operation of solar thermal power plants to enhance their peak shaving capabilities and support the green and low-carbon energy supply [7]. Group 3: Economic Viability and Policy Support - Despite a 52% reduction in grid connection prices since the first demonstration projects in 2016, solar thermal power generation still does not achieve grid parity, necessitating further technological and economic advancements [8]. - The document proposes improving policy support mechanisms, including compensation for reliable capacity and encouraging provinces to develop assessment methods for solar thermal power plants [9]. Group 4: Growth Potential in the Renewable Energy Sector - The solar thermal power generation industry is expected to become a new growth point in China's renewable energy sector, with a target of reaching 15 million kilowatts of total installed capacity by 2030, potentially driving direct investments of approximately 170 billion yuan [10]. - The anticipated new projects could create around 132,000 to 142,000 jobs during the "Fifteenth Five-Year" period, highlighting significant social benefits [10]. Group 5: Technological Innovation and International Cooperation - The document calls for accelerating technological innovation in solar thermal power generation, including the construction of large-capacity power plants and the exploration of carbon reduction technologies in conjunction with coal power [11]. - It also encourages international collaboration and participation in setting global standards, aiming to establish flagship projects under the Belt and Road Initiative [11].