Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the industry [6]. Core Insights - The independent energy storage business model is evolving from virtual to real, with mechanisms gradually improving in domestic markets, particularly with the expectation of a clear turning point by the end of 2025 [16][21]. - The demand for energy storage remains strong, with significant improvements in profitability anticipated as the market matures [50]. Summary by Sections Business Model: Transition from Virtual to Real - Current independent storage business models include spot market arbitrage, ancillary services, and capacity compensation, with overseas markets like the UK, US, and Australia being more mature [16]. - By the end of 2025, most provinces in China are expected to enter continuous settlement, allowing for sustainable arbitrage opportunities in the spot market [21][23]. Spot Market Developments - The domestic electricity spot market is entering a rapid construction phase, with most provinces expected to start continuous settlement trials by the end of 2025 [23]. - The average price difference in the spot market has been expanding, particularly in provinces like Gansu and Guangdong, where the average price difference reached over 0.4 yuan/kWh [26]. Capacity Pricing - The introduction of capacity pricing for independent storage is anticipated, which will help secure part of the revenue for storage systems [33]. - Several provinces, including Shandong and Inner Mongolia, have already implemented capacity pricing policies, with more expected to follow [34]. Market Demand and Profitability - In the first five months of 2025, the cumulative installed capacity of energy storage in China reached 13.4 GW, a year-on-year increase of 57% [52]. - The bidding for energy storage projects remains robust, with a cumulative bid of 36.6 GW, reflecting a 191% year-on-year increase [52]. Price Stability and Industry Profitability - The industry has reached a profitability bottom, with significant reductions in the prices of battery cells and systems stabilizing [61]. - The average price of 280Ah battery cells has decreased from 0.30 yuan/Wh to 0.29 yuan/Wh, indicating a narrowing decline in prices [61].