Sichuan’s First 100MW/400MWh Grid-Forming Vanadium Flow Battery Energy Storage Station Begins Commercial Operation
Date: 21 Jul 2026 |
Source: Sichuan Daily, 21 July 2026
The 100MW/400MWh grid-forming vanadium flow battery (VFB) energy storage station in Leshan, Sichuan Province has successfully commenced commercial operation following its connection to the grid. Developed and invested by Sichuan V-LiQuid Energy Co., Ltd., the project is the first grid-side, grid-forming vanadium flow battery independent energy storage project in Sichuan Province. It marks a significant advancement in the deployment of long-duration energy storage technologies and reinforces the province's commitment to building a more resilient, flexible and low-carbon power system.
Located in Tuzhu Town, Shizhong District, Leshan, within the Tuzhu Textile Industrial Park, the facility represents an investment of approximately RMB 1.4 billion and occupies 44.5 mu (approximately 3 hectares). With an installed capacity of 100MW/400MWh, the station will enhance grid flexibility, support the integration of renewable energy, and contribute to Sichuan's transition towards a modern electricity system. The project also supports China's broader objectives of achieving carbon peaking and carbon neutrality.
The energy storage station utilizes vanadium flow battery technology, renowned for its intrinsic safety, long operational life, environmental friendliness, and suitability for long-duration energy storage applications. The station comprises 30 energy storage units, supported by a 110kV substation and connected to the Foguang 220kV substation through a dedicated 110kV transmission line. Energy is stored and released through reversible oxidation-state changes of vanadium ions within the electrolyte.
A distinguishing feature of the project is its grid-forming capability, enabling the station to actively regulate grid voltage and frequency as an independent voltage source. Unlike conventional grid-following battery systems that respond passively to grid conditions, grid-forming technology enhances system inertia and stability, making it an increasingly important solution for integrating high shares of renewable energy into modern power systems.
With electricity demand reaching seasonal peaks, the new facility will participate in a range of ancillary services, including peak shaving, frequency regulation, and capacity leasing. The project is expected to absorb approximately 140 million kWh of renewable electricity annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 139,500 tonnes per year, while improving renewable energy utilization and optimizing the regional energy mix. It also strengthens the integration of Leshan's photovoltaic manufacturing industry with emerging energy storage technologies.
The station also provides enhanced grid resilience through its black-start capability, allowing it to restore power independently following major grid outages caused by extreme weather or other emergencies. By rapidly establishing system voltage after a blackout, the facility can support the restoration of electricity supply across Shizhong District and surrounding areas, further strengthening regional energy security during periods of high electricity demand.
The successful commissioning of the Leshan project demonstrates the growing commercial maturity of large-scale vanadium redox flow battery technology and highlights its strategic role in supporting renewable energy integration, grid stability, and the development of resilient, low-carbon power systems.