Virtual power plants and microgrids: dual engines for energy transformation
By the end of 2025, the proportion of non fossil energy power generation in China is expected to reach about 39%, and the installed capacity of pumped storage and new energy storage in China will exceed 62 million kilowatts and 40 million kilowatts respectively; The demand response capacity of each region should generally reach 3% -5% of the maximum electricity load, and the demand response capacity of regions with an annual peak valley difference rate of over 40% of the maximum electricity load should reach more than 5% of the maximum electricity load.
On May 29th, the State Council issued the "Action Plan for Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction from 2024 to 2025", which mentioned improving the consumption capacity of renewable energy, accelerating the transformation of distribution networks, and enhancing the carrying capacity of distributed new energy. Actively develop pumped storage and new types of energy storage. Vigorously develop new technologies and models such as microgrids and virtual power plants.
1. About Virtual Power Plant
Virtual power plants themselves do not generate electricity, but rather aggregate and coordinate energy supply optimization through advanced technologies such as distributed generation, controllable loads, energy storage, and electric vehicles. For example, Guoneng Daily recently disclosed a private placement plan, proposing to raise no more than 864 million yuan for the construction of projects such as microgrids and virtual power plant comprehensive energy management platforms.
In Shanghai, Huangpu District, as a densely populated commercial building area, has over 200 large commercial buildings equipped with energy consumption monitoring devices and complete digital infrastructure to implement demand response projects. Its air conditioning and lighting electrical equipment account for more than 70% of the total electricity consumption, playing a huge role in peak shaving and economic value in the electricity market.
2. Regarding Microgrids
A microgrid is a small power generation and distribution system composed of distributed power sources, energy storage devices, energy conversion devices, loads, monitoring and protection devices, etc.
The "Green Microgrid" project operated at ABB Industrial Center in Xiamen continuously delivers clean energy to the park. At the same time, a photovoltaic storage direct flexible microgrid is constructed within the park, integrating photovoltaic power generation, efficient energy storage, charging and distribution, and storing excess electricity.
Therefore, virtual power plants and microgrids complement each other in energy transformation, playing a positive role in policy, economy, and practicality. Mingde Energy Storage is a leading domestic enterprise in both virtual power plants and microgrids. As part of the company's core business segments, Mingde people have always demanded a high level of themselves and will work together with the government and enterprises to promote innovation and development in the energy field, injecting strong impetus into the construction of a new power system and the realization of sustainable energy development.
