In a bid to enhance fire safety in China, local authorities are reportedly planning an extensive inspection and renovation program for energy storage facilities across the country. In response to recent accidents that illustrate the risks of battery storage, particularly a fire at a battery energy storage project in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, that occurred in early April.
The incident caused near-total destruction of the construction site, prompting the local government to conduct urgent fire safety inspections and rectifications for all battery energy storage facilities within its control, both construction and operational. This localised response appears to be the catalyst for broader, nationwide measures now under consideration.
Recent reports have stated that regulatory authorities in China have engaged with a range of stakeholders, from manufacturers, constructors, and operators of energy storage facilities— requesting input on the proposed safety enhancements. The project is expected to include complete fire safety hazard inspections alongside the adoption of improved safety measures in existing energy storage installations.
For older storage stations, the changes are expected to significantly increase non-technical costs, potentially up to CNY 0.2 per Wh ($0.028/Wh), reflecting the extensive nature of the upgrades needed to meet the new safety standards.
Recent Developments in China's EV and Clean Energy Sectors
- China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of hydrogen, with a demand of more than 33 million tons each year
- The country is set to be one of the largest low-carbon hydrogen producers globally, by 2025
- In the first half of 2024, China's electric vehicle (EV) sales exceeded 2 million units, representing a 60% year-on-year increase. This is due to strong government support, customer incentives, and breakthroughs in EV technology by regional manufacturers
- The country recently announced plans to expand its solar power capacity by 100 GW by the end of 2025
IFE Technical Director, Paul Trew:
“China’s thorough safety review of its battery storage facilities demonstrates the country’s commitment to improving fire safety standards across its rapidly growing energy storage sector.
Regulatory agencies are working alongside manufacturers, constructors, and operators to establish stringent fire safety inspections and adopt advanced safety measures.
The IFE fully supports this initiative, which is critical to ensuring the safety and reliability of both existing and new energy storage installations. This proactive approach reflects China’s bigger plan to assist its growing clean energy and electric vehicle markets, solidifying its position as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.”