Leshan Launches Trial Operation of 100 MW/400 MWh Vanadium Flow Battery Energy Storage Station
Date: 13 Jul 2026 |
Source: VRFB-Battery WeChat, 13 July 2026
The 100 MW/400 MWh Vanadium Flow Battery (VFB) Energy Storage Station in Shizhong District, Leshan, has officially entered trial operation, marking a significant milestone in the development of large-scale energy storage and grid resilience in Sichuan Province.
The project is the first vanadium flow battery energy storage station in Leshan and one of Sichuan Province's first grid-side grid-forming independent energy storage demonstration projects. The station began receiving power on the morning of July 9, following successful energization through a newly constructed 110 kV transmission line connected to the 220 kV Foguang Substation.
Using vanadium ions dissolved in electrolyte to store and release energy through reversible electrochemical reactions, the facility charges during periods of low electricity demand and discharges during peak demand. Once fully operational, the station will participate in a range of ancillary grid services, including peak shaving, frequency regulation, and capacity leasing, helping to improve the reliability and flexibility of the regional electricity network.
With an energy storage capacity of 400 MWh, the facility can deliver approximately 400,000 kWh of electricity, enough to supply the daily residential and commercial electricity demand of a county-sized community in Leshan.
A distinguishing feature of the project is its grid-forming capability. Unlike conventional grid-following battery systems that rely on an existing grid voltage, the new storage station can actively establish and regulate voltage and frequency. This capability enables the system to support grid stability and, in the event of a major power outage, perform a black start—restoring power by independently re-establishing voltage and helping bring sections of the grid back online.
The project also represents an important step in integrating renewable energy and long-duration energy storage, supporting the continued growth of Leshan's photovoltaic industry while strengthening the region's power infrastructure.
Operating a storage system of this scale also presents new challenges. Charging the battery to full capacity requires approximately four hours, placing additional demand on the electricity network. During periods of high summer electricity consumption, the local utility will optimize charging schedules and power levels to ensure safe and reliable grid operation. The utility also plans to work closely with the project operator to optimize commercial participation in electricity markets and maximize the value of the storage asset through dynamic operational adjustments.
The successful trial operation of the Leshan project demonstrates the growing role of vanadium flow battery technology in supporting China's transition toward a more flexible, resilient, and low-carbon power system. As one of Sichuan's pioneering grid-side energy storage projects, it provides a valuable model for future deployment of long-duration energy storage across the country.