Core Viewpoint - The sodium-ion battery technology is advancing from laboratory testing to large-scale application, with the recent launch of the Fulin sodium-ion battery energy storage station marking a significant milestone in China's energy storage technology development [1] Group 1: Cost and Safety Advantages - Sodium-ion batteries are gaining attention due to their lower costs and higher safety compared to lithium-ion batteries, which are facing rising costs and safety issues [2] - The price of lithium hexafluorophosphate exceeded 70,000 yuan per ton, with a significant increase of 9,500 yuan (approximately 16%) in just five trading days [2] - Sodium-ion batteries exhibit better thermal stability and lower risks of thermal runaway, making them a safer alternative for energy storage [2] Group 2: Industry Development and Ecosystem - The sodium-ion battery industry in China has seen rapid development, with over 200 companies involved across the entire supply chain, including key materials, battery manufacturing, and system integration [3] - Significant breakthroughs have been made in basic research, material preparation, and battery design, leading to improved product performance and expanding application areas [3] - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has issued a development action plan for new energy storage manufacturing, focusing on long life, high energy density, and wide temperature range for sodium-ion batteries [3] Group 3: Commercialization Timeline - The period from 2021 to 2025 is identified as the industrialization phase for sodium-ion batteries, with 2026 expected to be a critical year for their commercial application [4] - Enhancing energy density and scaling production are essential for achieving sustainable commercialization of sodium-ion batteries in the next two to three years [4] Group 4: Technological Innovations - Research on materials such as sodium vanadium phosphate and hard carbon has led to the development of high-power sodium battery systems, with significant improvements in electrochemical performance [5][6] - Collaboration between enterprises, universities, and research institutions is encouraged to accelerate innovation and application of sodium-ion battery technologies [6] Group 5: Standardization Efforts - Establishing a standardization framework for sodium-ion batteries is crucial for guiding product quality and technological advancement in the industry [7] - The China Electronics Standardization Institute has initiated the development of industry standards, including terminology and safety requirements, to support the growth of the sodium-ion battery sector [7] - Ongoing evaluation and testing of sodium-ion battery products have shown an average energy density of 106 watt-hours per kilogram, providing a benchmark for industry performance [7][8]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significance of sodium-ion batteries in driving a net-zero future, highlighting their potential in energy storage and sustainability initiatives [1]. Event Overview - The 4th Sodium-Ion Battery Industry Chain and Standards Development Forum will take place in Weihai, Shandong from September 24 to 26, 2025 [3][7]. - The forum is organized by the China Electronic Technology Standardization Institute and the Zhongguancun Energy Storage Industry Technology Alliance, with support from the Weihai Nanhai New Area Management Committee [8]. Key Sessions and Discussions - The forum will feature a series of sessions including the 2025 annual meeting of the lithium-ion battery and similar products standard working group, discussions on national standards for sodium-ion batteries, and various technical reports on battery technology advancements [10][12]. - Notable presentations will cover topics such as the development and application of low-temperature sodium-ion batteries, safety performance comparisons, and innovations in sodium-ion battery materials [12][14]. Industry Contributions - Experts from various institutions, including the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Harbin Institute of Technology, will present their research and findings on sodium-ion battery technologies [12][14]. - The forum aims to facilitate discussions on the industrialization of sodium-ion batteries and their applications in various sectors, including electric vehicles and energy storage systems [14]. Networking and Participation - Participants are required to pre-register for the event, with no participation fees, although accommodation and travel expenses are self-managed [15][22]. - The forum will also provide opportunities for networking among industry professionals and stakeholders involved in the sodium-ion battery sector [31].