State Grid Changzhou uses microgrids to power green transition

Guided by China's "Dual Carbon" goals, State Grid Changzhou Power Supply Company is creating a network of all-scenario microgrids, integrating them into the fabric of the city's development. From scenic spots to factories and industrial parks, these intelligent energy systems are accelerating the local green transition.

Green power for scenic spots

At the Nanshan Bamboo Sea scenic area, a new microgrid has solved a common problem for tourists: long charging queues. This project, Jiangsu's first eco-friendly vehicle-grid interaction microgrid, features 173 charging piles.

The station operates on a coordinated "solar-storage-charging" model. Its solar panels generate 1.2 million kWh of electricity annually, with any excess stored in a large battery for peak periods. To manage fluctuating tourist demand, it uses a "tidal pricing strategy," offering lower rates on weekdays to attract local vehicles and standard pricing on busy weekends. This approach ensures reliable power for visitors while keeping operational costs in check.

Cutting costs for manufacturers

For businesses, microgrids are a tool for reducing energy expenses. Changzhou Borui Electric Power Automation Equipment is a prime example. Facing high energy consumption, the company worked with State Grid to install a smart microgrid.

The system includes rooftop solar panels and eight energy storage cabinets. The solar facilities generate about 25,000 kWh daily, significantly reducing the company's power expenses.

The batteries charge during off-peak hours and discharge during expensive peak times, saving roughly 5,000 yuan ($701.68) in electricity costs each month. An intelligent platform coordinates all elements — solar, storage, and factory load — into an efficient, adaptive energy system.

Boosting low-carbon parks

The deployment of microgrids extends to large industrial parks. The Changzhou Wujin Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone Industrial Park is now home to Jiangsu's largest park-level microgrid.

This project features a substantial energy storage system that uses multiple battery technologies to improve capacity and power. A key innovation is its integrated DC microgrid system, which reduces energy loss by over 5 percent compared to traditional AC systems and provides backup power for critical loads.

The microgrid's management system can regulate solar, storage, and charging piles in real-time, achieving full local consumption of green electricity. The project is expected to save the park 3.68 million yuan in annual energy costs and reduce carbon emissions by 1,032 metric tons.

Through these diverse projects, State Grid Changzhou is creating a replicable model for a sustainable, low-carbon energy future.