Accelerating Renewable Energy Adoption through Network Technology Innovations
The 3rd International Digital Energy Expo (IDEE), now officially underway in Shenzhen, China, represents a significant milestone for the renewable energy sector. Here, industry leaders, organizations, thinkers, and stakeholders are gathered to discuss transformative trends, innovative technological applications, and effective business practices aimed at achieving high-quality development in digital energy. During the inaugural ceremony, Zhou Jianjun, Vice President of Huawei and President of Global Marketing, Sales, and Services for Huawei Digital Power, delivered a compelling keynote address titled "Network Technology for All Scenarios: Accelerating the Adoption of Wind and Solar Energy as Primary Sources of Power." In his presentation, Zhou emphasized that the journey towards carbon neutrality has progressed from mere consensus to actionable strategies. However, he noted critical challenges posed by the rapid integration of wind and photovoltaic energy into the energy grid, particularly regarding stability and the high penetration rates of renewable resources and power electronic devices. In response to these challenges, Huawei has consistently led the charge in technological innovation, enhancing its network capabilities across various scenarios to facilitate the construction of a stable new energy system. The ultimate goal is to propel the adoption of wind and solar energy as the main power sources, ushering in a new era of network technology.
Huawei, having focused on network technology research for over a decade, is pioneering the transition from network monitoring and support to comprehensive network construction. Through the integration of state-of-the-art hardware, intelligent digital control devices, and innovative algorithms, Huawei has established six critical functionalities that support the generation, transmission, distribution, and consumption of energy. These capabilities are essential for transitioning from Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to Photovoltaic + Energy Storage Systems (PV+ESS). Key functionalities include short-circuit level management, virtual inertia support, broadband oscillation damping, rapid primary frequency response, minute-level black start capabilities, and seamless transitions between grid connection and disconnection.
The deployment of distribution network technologies is occurring on a global scale and is setting benchmarks for the global transition to a greener economy. For instance, in the Middle East, Huawei's distribution network technologies have enabled the creation of the world's largest microgrid completely powered by renewable energy sources, which has successfully maintained reliability against harsh weather conditions for two years. In another project located in Sichuan, China, a partnership with local authorities led to the installation of a PV+ESS solution in a high-altitude, severely cold environment, boosting solar panel output from 1.5 MW to an impressive 12 MW. Notably, Huawei's solution offers a 75% higher energy yield compared to competitors, significantly enhancing project profitability. Meanwhile, the Philippines is witnessing the initiation of the largest integrated PV+ESS project on a global scale, poised to address urgent energy shortages with an impressive 3.5 GW PV systems and 4.5 GWh ESS combined. This project harnesses advanced coordinated PV+ESS management technology and black start capabilities to deliver continuous power for up to 13 hours daily.
Huawei remains committed to spearheading innovation in digital and intelligent technology within the renewable energy sector. The company has achieved what they refer to as a full synergy of "device-edge-cloud" within the PV+ESS space, facilitating smart management of power plants throughout their lifecycle. This eco-friendly advance minimizes maintenance burdens, and in some cases, achieves near to no intervention during operation, maximizing revenues from electricity trading. Furthermore, the profound integration of artificial intelligence across planning, construction, maintenance, and operational phases has led to a remarkable 40% reduction in execution errors and a 50% improvement in operational efficiency, alongside a notable increase of over 10% in operational revenues. This strategic direction supports customers in building safe, efficient, and intelligent renewable energy power plants, moving the industry into a new realm of automation.
Quality is paramount for the sustainability of the renewable energy sector, and Huawei Digital Power has consistently prioritized this principle. Through systematic and process-oriented capabilities and a comprehensive quality strategy, high standards are implemented throughout the product lifecycle, from demand assessment and material management to manufacturing and delivery, continually generating greater value for customers. Moving forward, Huawei Digital Power is dedicated to collaborating with industry bodies, grid operators, industrial associations, and regulatory authorities to enhance sector standards, optimize energy market mechanisms, and promote widespread, standardized, and high-quality industry development—ultimately accelerating the establishment of wind and solar energy as the leading sources of electricity.