Core Viewpoint - The National Development and Reform Commission has issued a management approach to support low-carbon transformation in coal power and coal chemical projects, as well as promoting clean energy alternatives in various industries [1] Group 1: Policy Support - The new management approach emphasizes support for the low-carbon transformation of coal power units and coal chemical projects [1] - It encourages the replacement of coal-fired boilers and industrial kilns in industries such as food, tobacco, textiles, paper, and dyeing with clean energy solutions [1] - The initiative also supports urban and rural residents in adopting geothermal and biomass energy for heating purposes [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the establishment of a capacity pricing mechanism for power generation in Ningxia, aimed at promoting a new energy system and supporting green and low-carbon energy transformation [7][9]. Group 1: Implementation Scope - The mechanism will initially include compliant public coal power units and new energy storage on the grid side, excluding direct current supporting power sources [10]. - The list of coal power units and new energy storage that will execute the capacity pricing mechanism will be compiled by the State Grid Ningxia Electric Power Company and submitted for review [10][11]. Group 2: Capacity Fee Determination - The capacity fee for coal power units and new energy storage will be determined by the product of effective capacity, capacity price standard, and capacity supply-demand ratio [11]. - Effective capacity for coal power units is calculated by deducting auxiliary power from the rated capacity, while for new energy storage, it is based on the full power discharge duration divided by 6 times the rated power [11]. - The capacity price standard will be 100 yuan per kilowatt per year from October to December 2025, increasing to 165 yuan per kilowatt per year starting January 2026 [11]. Group 3: Capacity Supply-Demand Ratio - The capacity supply-demand ratio is defined as the ratio of capacity demand to total effective capacity, with capacity demand calculated based on the maximum value of the previous year's system net load curve [4][11]. - If the capacity supply-demand ratio exceeds 1, it will be capped at 1 [4]. Group 4: Fee Settlement and Distribution - The State Grid Ningxia Electric Power Company will calculate and settle the capacity fee monthly [12]. - The capacity fee will be proportionally shared among all industrial and commercial users based on their monthly electricity consumption and the monthly electricity delivery of power generation companies [13]. Group 5: Capacity Fee Assessment - If a coal power unit cannot provide output as per dispatch instructions and its maximum output is less than 95% of effective capacity, penalties will be applied [14]. - New energy storage units will also face penalties for non-operation during the month, affecting their eligibility for future capacity fees [14]. Group 6: Other Matters - The notification will take effect from October 1, 2025, and will be adjusted according to national policy changes [15].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes the importance of low-carbon and flexible transformation of coal-fired power units for sustainable development in the energy industry [1][2] - Coal power is seen as a crucial bridge in building a new energy system, supporting the safe integration of renewable energy into the grid through flexibility upgrades [2][10] - Experts advocate for the advancement and application of flexibility transformation technologies in coal power units to enhance their regulation capabilities and contribute to high-quality development in the energy sector [2][3] Group 2 - The concept of smart power plants is introduced, highlighting their role in achieving clean carbon reduction and efficient regulation within the new power system [3][4] - Smart power plants are characterized by automation, intelligent decision-making, and environmental benefits, which are essential for the high-quality development of the power industry [3][4] - The implementation plan for the new generation of coal power upgrades outlines technical goals related to deep regulation, load variation rates, and clean operation [3][4] Group 3 - The new generation of coal power signifies a shift from passive adaptation to proactive leadership, focusing on technological innovation and system considerations [4][5] - Future smart power plants should not only generate electricity but also incorporate green technologies and integrate with other industries to create a comprehensive energy and environmental platform [4][5] Group 4 - Challenges in the flexibility operation of coal power units include insufficient experience and management, leading to increased safety risks and equipment lifespan concerns [6][7] - A systematic approach is recommended to achieve flexible operation of coal power units, balancing deep regulation, load rate improvement, and economic efficiency [8][9] Group 5 - Successful case studies demonstrate the implementation of flexible modifications in coal power units, enhancing their adaptability and operational stability [9][10] - The flexibility transformation of coal power units is a strategic initiative during the energy transition, aiming to maintain their role as stabilizers in the energy system while supporting the development of renewable energy [10]