Core Viewpoint - The lithium battery energy storage sector is experiencing a significant surge driven by policy support, market demand, and rising prices, indicating the onset of a new super cycle in the industry [1][5][24]. Policy Support - The National Development and Reform Commission and the National Energy Administration have issued guidelines to promote renewable energy consumption, aiming for an average of 200GW by 2030, which enhances the profitability of energy storage projects [3]. - Energy storage projects can now earn stable income by providing peak shaving services to the grid, increasing internal rates of return (IRR) from 5%-6% to 8%-10%, with some regions even reaching 12% [3][4]. - The cancellation of mandatory energy storage requirements has led to a 212% year-on-year increase in domestic energy storage bidding volumes [4]. Demand Explosion - The domestic market has seen a doubling of registered energy storage projects to 1125GWh in the first three quarters of 2025, indicating a shift from being an accessory to renewable energy to a primary focus [6]. - Overseas orders for Chinese energy storage companies surged by 246% year-on-year, with significant demand from the U.S. and Europe due to AI data centers and carbon neutrality goals [6][7]. Price Increases in Materials - The price of lithium hexafluorophosphate (6F) has increased by 50% from its bottom price of 45,000 yuan/ton, driven by rising demand and limited production capacity [16]. - Prices for battery-grade lithium carbonate and other additives have also seen significant increases, with VC prices rising by 50% since September [12][17]. - The supply-demand dynamics in the materials sector are expected to continue driving price increases, with structural shortages in key components like cathodes and separators [19][23]. Key Companies and Investment Opportunities - Companies involved in energy storage systems and power conversion systems (PCS) are positioned to benefit from the surge in global orders, with notable players including Sungrow Power and Huaneng Renewables [21]. - Leading battery cell manufacturers like CATL and EVE Energy are expected to see stable demand growth, with their production capacities fully utilized [22]. - Material producers such as Tianji and Huasheng Lithium are highlighted for their strong profit potential due to rising prices and demand [23]. Summary - The lithium battery energy storage sector is at the beginning of a super cycle, driven by favorable policies, robust demand, and rising material prices, with significant opportunities across the entire supply chain [24][25].