Exploring Solutions for Energy Accessibility at the Global Low-Carbon Industry Forum 2026
The Global Low-Carbon Industry Forum 2026: A Step Towards Energy Equality
On September 15, 2026, Shenzhen was the forefront of innovative energy discussions during the Global Low-Carbon Industry Forum 2026. The forum, themed "Making the Most of Every Ray, Powering the Unpowered," brought together industry leaders, policy makers, and academics to address crucial topics concerning energy access and the integration of advanced technologies. The event was organized with the collaboration of the Global Solar Council, China Energy Research Society, World Alliance for Low Carbon Cities, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, and Huawei Digital Power.
The Future of Energy: Integrating Technology and Community Needs
During his opening speech, Hou Jinlong, Chairman of Huawei Digital Power, highlighted that the long-term trends in global energy transition include decarbonization, electrification, digitalization, and intelligence. However, he also warned that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the energy transition, as different economies face distinct challenges. For instance, regions with high renewable energy penetration require stronger system security, whereas emerging economies prioritize energy supply stability and cost reductions. On the contrary, underdeveloped areas aim for inclusive electricity access. By integrating grid-forming technologies with artificial intelligence, renewable energy can achieve lower costs and enhanced reliability, paving the way for a more dynamic transition.
A Discourse on Sustainable Technology
The forum featured key discussions on the integration of AI and renewable energy systems. The Global Solar Council representative illustrated how the world is shifting from fossil fuel reliance to local solar resource independence amidst growing uncertainties. Such a transformation is propelled by technological advancements that emphasize deep integration between solar power and energy storage systems which boost resilience and sustainability in energy systems.
Wang Xiongfei, a member of IEEE from Tsinghua University, discussed the evolving challenges from data centers needed for AI. He pointed out that future data centers should not solely consume energy, but also support grid stability. His collaborative design concept focused on chip-to-grid systems suggests that innovations like grid-forming and load management could foster friendly interactions between data centers and power grids.
In a programmatic speech, Patrick Clerens, Secretary-General of Energy Storage Europe, analyzed the evolution of energy storage market mechanisms within the EU. He accentuated that the increasing share of renewable sources necessitates effective grid-forming capabilities to maintain system inertia. His insights revealed European market explorations into grid-forming services like synthetic inertia and fast frequency support, leading to new business models for energy storage.
Pioneering Projects and Initiatives
Several groundbreaking projects were discussed during the forum. Dr. Liu Yunfeng from Huawei Digital Power introduced the transition from traditional electromagnet-mechanical systems to programmable silicon-based systems, highlighting that AI is essential for complex systems to achieve autonomy in the energy internet. The FusionSolar Agent, with its four-tier AI architecture, aims to enhance the intelligent management of power plants, thereby advancing the interplay of solar, wind, and storage technologies.
Key findings were shared by Pouya Mostashar from Fraunhofer IWES on Europe's first megawatt-level grid-forming test conducted in collaboration with Huawei. Demonstrating the effective response to scenarios like inertial response and overload management, these tests lay the groundwork for standard certification and market commercialization of grid-forming capabilities.
Antonio M. Abuel Jr., from Terra Solar Philippines Inc., presented the largest global project integrating solar and energy storage systems, comprised of a 3.5 GW solar plant and a 4.5 GWh grid-connected storage system, providing reliable power for approximately 2.4 million households.
A Collaborative Commitment to Global Energy Needs
As the event concluded, the Global Joint Initiative on Grid Forming AI was launched in a collaborative effort with various industry partners. This initiative aims to standardize and scale up the application of grid-forming technology and AI across the energy sector, addressing global energy disparities and striving to ensure green and affordable electricity access for all. This multi-agency effort is particularly aimed at the nearly 700 million individuals worldwide who currently lack reliable electricity access.
By investing in technology that provides sustainable energy solutions, the forum not only emphasizes the need for a green energy future but also showcases actionable pathways towards achieving global energy equality through collaborative innovation.