Core Insights - The new energy industry is significantly impacting county economies, exemplified by the rapid development of the lithium-sodium battery industry cluster in Qingyun County, Shandong, which has transformed from having only two related companies in 2022 to a hundred billion yuan industry cluster within three years [1][2] Group 1: Industry Development - Qingyun County has designated the lithium-sodium battery industry as its primary industry, establishing a specialized team and planning for its development despite having only two companies in 2022, one of which is Changxin Chemical, the largest NMP producer in China with a 19% market share [2][4] - The county's abundant green electricity resources, including wind power that exceeds local consumption, have attracted investments, such as the collaboration with Three Gorges New Energy to build the largest independent energy storage station in the country [2][4] - By 2024, Qingyun plans to invest 2.5 billion yuan in the Zhongqing New Energy Green Near-Zero Carbon Industrial Park, which will facilitate the production and export of green electricity products [4][12] Group 2: Supply Chain and Cost Advantages - The establishment of a complete industrial chain in Qingyun, from raw materials to battery production and recycling, has created a competitive edge, allowing for reduced inventory turnover days compared to industry averages, thus lowering costs [5][6] - The local companies are benefiting from direct supply relationships, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs in the production of lithium-sodium batteries and related products [5][6] Group 3: Market Expansion and Innovation - The sodium-ion battery sector is rapidly industrializing, with Qingyun attracting several related projects, including a partnership with Zhongke Hai Sodium, which has established a production line capable of producing 300,000 batteries daily [7][8] - The local enterprise, Jinli Battery Exchange, is innovating in the battery swapping service model, expanding its network across major cities and securing contracts with large corporations [8][9] Group 4: Talent Attraction and Future Planning - Qingyun County has successfully attracted high-end talent, evidenced by the establishment of a battery recycling company that has developed a comprehensive recycling network across 23 provinces [10][11] - The county is also planning future industries, including low-altitude economy projects and drone manufacturing, further extending the lithium-sodium battery industry's value chain [12][13] - The second industry value added in Qingyun is projected to exceed 10 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a growth of 7.9% from previous years, with significant industrial investment increases [12][13]