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The Global Low-Carbon Industry Forum 2026

On September 15, 2026, the vibrant city of Shenzhen was the backdrop for the 2026 Global Low-Carbon Industry Forum, themed "Making the Most of Every Ray, Powering the Unpowered." This crucial gathering brought together industry leaders, prominent scientists, and energy sector stakeholders from around the globe to discuss transformative strategies aimed at bridging the electricity access gap and enhancing energy sustainability using advanced technology.

The forum was co-hosted by renowned organizations including the Global Solar Energy Council, the Chinese Energy Research Society, the Global Alliance of Low-Carbon Cities, the Tsinghua University Shenzhen International Graduate School, and Huawei Digital Power. Together, they identified pressing issues within the global energy sector and explored solutions leveraging AI and grid-forming technologies.

The Opening Address

In his opening remarks, Hou Jinlong, Chairman of Huawei and President of Huawei Digital Power, emphasized key long-term trends impacting the energy sector: decarbonization, electrification, digitalization, and the development of smart solutions. He underscored that there is no single answer to the complex challenges posed by energy systems; each region confronts unique structural challenges. For instance, areas rich in renewable energy must prioritize system security, whereas developing economies focus on ensuring reliable and affordable electricity supply. Moreover, regions with significant energy poverty require universal energy access.

He highlighted that the integration of grid-forming technologies with AI presents viable, replicable solutions capable of supporting energy transitions worldwide.

Insights from Industry Leaders

One of the standout presentations during the forum was from a representative of the Global Solar Energy Council. He noted an essential transition from dependency on fossil fuels towards achieving energy independence through local solar resources and energy storage. This shift has been made possible by technological advancements that allow for a robust, sustainable energy system, particularly through the intertwining of photovoltaic systems and energy storage capabilities.

Professor Wang Xiongfei of Tsinghua University explored the challenges faced by gigawatt-scale AI Data Centers (AIDCs). His discourse pointed out the necessity for future data centers to evolve beyond being massive energy consumers; they must also serve as grid-friendly receivers that can actively assist grid operations and maintain function during disruptions. This calling for a coordinated design approach from semiconductor to power grid emphasizes the vital role that energy storage and optimized control technologies play in forging a symbiotic relationship between data centers and power grids.

Patrick Clerens, Secretary-General of the European Association for Energy Storage, shed light on the evolving landscape of energy storage market mechanisms within the EU. He discussed reforms aimed at securing energy supply and transforming electricity market structures. His arguments outlined how the increasing share of renewable energy has decreased system inertia, raising the necessity for grid-forming capabilities as a requisite operational aspect.

Innovative Developments in Energy Storage

Dr. Liu Yunfeng, Chief Scientist at Huawei Digital Power, presented on the silicon evolution of energy internet systems. He declared that energy systems are transitioning from electromagnetic-mechanical systems to programmable silicon-based systems, where the stability of the grid becomes a crafted capability. His assertions lead to the understanding that AI is imperative for the complex interplay of autonomous energy systems.

During his presentation, Pouya Mostashar from the Fraunhofer Institute shared results from Europe's first megawatt-scale grid-forming technology test conducted in collaboration with Huawei, confirming the effectiveness of energy storage technologies in critical scenarios. Moreover, Antonio M. Abuel Jr. from Terra Solar Philippines presented the world's largest PV and energy storage project, which aims to supply stable, clean energy to approximately 2.4 million households.

A Call to Action for Energy Access

Concluding the forum, the co-hosting organizations collectively launched a Global Joint Initiative for Grid-Forming Technology and AI. This initiative aims to unify industry stakeholders in accelerating the standardization and large-scale deployment of these technologies, intending to alleviate energy access disparities, particularly for the 700 million people globally still lacking electricity.

By leveraging grid-forming technologies and AI, a stable, intelligent energy system reliant on renewable sources is rapidly emerging, paving the way for a green future that is both inclusive and sustainable. Through collaborating innovation, the aim is not just to transform energy systems but to ensure equitable access to clean, affordable electricity for all.