Core Viewpoint - The large-scale investment in independent energy storage has officially begun, driven by the recognition of storage capacity value in the national pricing mechanism, marking a significant breakthrough in economic viability and asset securitization for independent storage stations [3][5]. Group 1: Policy Developments - On January 30, 2026, the National Development and Reform Commission and the National Energy Administration issued a notice that includes independent storage in the generation-side capacity pricing mechanism, enhancing the revenue certainty of independent storage assets [3]. - The 136 Document has removed mandatory storage requirements, allowing market-driven decisions regarding storage, and has established independent storage as a market entity capable of generating revenue through multiple channels [4][5]. - The 114 Document further optimizes the capacity pricing mechanism, aligning storage capacity pricing with coal power, thus recognizing independent storage's capacity value for the first time [5]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - In 2025, independent storage installations reached a record high of 62.24 GW/183 GWh, with independent storage accounting for 35.43 GW, or 56.6% of the total new installations, indicating a shift from policy-driven to value-driven growth in the storage industry [4]. - The introduction of capacity pricing and asset securitization is expected to drive large-scale development of independent storage by 2026, as these mechanisms provide a stable revenue foundation and open funding channels [3][6]. Group 3: Asset Securitization - The first asset-backed security (ABS) for independent storage was accepted by the Shanghai Stock Exchange, marking a significant step towards the standardization of independent storage in financial markets [7]. - The successful issuance of this ABS could transform the investment logic and valuation paradigm for storage, shifting from reliance on policy subsidies to a model anchored in long-term operational revenue [7][9]. - The acceleration of asset securitization in the renewable energy sector, including independent storage, is seen as a solution to the industry's challenges related to heavy assets and long investment cycles [8]. Group 4: Global Investment Trends - Global capital is increasingly seeking stable, tangible assets, with independent storage being likened to real estate in the AI era due to its strong demand and revenue certainty [10][12]. - Major investment firms are ramping up their investments in renewable energy projects, with a focus on energy, grid, and infrastructure assets, as these are viewed as low-risk and high-return opportunities [11][13]. - The trend of capital influx into independent storage is expected to accelerate in 2026, driven by both domestic and international investments, further solidifying its status as an income-generating infrastructure asset [13].