Photo from Energy Vault
The future of clean energy isn’t only about electric vehicles or solar panels—it’s about where and how we store the energy. China is building a battery as large as a building, and it’s not just a technical achievement—it’s a major piece in the puzzle of powering cities without harming the planet.
This mega-battery is part of a broader plan to solve one of the toughest problems in clean energy: storing massive amounts of electricity so it can be used when needed, not just when the sun shines or wind blows. Placed near EV charging hubs and urban centers, it will support electric vehicle charging stations without overloading the grid. That means fewer delays, faster recharges, and reduced pressure on coal-based electricity.
This isn’t a trial run—it’s a working solution to pollution, traffic emissions, and fossil fuel dependence. China’s move is about taking control of its energy future, and possibly leading the world toward a new model that’s cleaner, smarter, and more reliable.
Table of Contents
How Big Is a Battery as Large as a Building?
When people hear “battery as large as a building,” it sounds almost unreal. But this is not some futuristic idea—it’s a real structure being built to handle real problems. The battery facility under construction in Dalian, China, is designed to be 100,000 kilowatts with a 400,000 kilowatt-hour capacity. That’s enough to power tens of thousands of homes for several hours or recharge thousands of electric vehicles.
Instead of thinking of batteries as small boxes in your devices or cars, think of this one as an entire warehouse filled with advanced liquid flow batteries. These aren’t the typical lithium-ion ones either—they’re vanadium redox flow batteries. They’re safer, longer-lasting, and can be scaled without overheating risks.
The size is necessary because it’s not just about charging cars—it’s about stabilizing the city’s entire energy system during peaks and blackouts. It acts as a giant energy bank, storing extra clean energy and releasing it when demand surges. This is energy storage done at a city-wide level.
China's Ambitious Leap in Energy Storage
China is making bold moves in energy storage by constructing a battery as large as a building. This massive project aims to revolutionize how we recharge electric vehicles (EVs) and manage renewable energy. The giant battery system is designed to store surplus energy from renewable sources like wind and solar, ensuring a stable power supply even when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.
This approach addresses the intermittent nature of renewable energy, a significant hurdle in the global shift toward sustainable power. By integrating such large-scale energy storage solutions, China aims to enhance the reliability of its power grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support the rapid growth of its EV market. This initiative not only showcases China’s commitment to innovative energy solutions but also sets a precedent for other nations aiming to bolster their renewable energy infrastructure.
China's Multi-Faceted Approach to Revolutionizing EV Charging
China is not only building a battery as large as a building but also making significant strides in other areas of electric vehicle (EV) charging technology. A notable development is BYD’s introduction of an ultra-fast charging system capable of delivering 400 kilometers (approximately 248 miles) of range in just five minutes.
This advancement positions BYD ahead of competitors like Tesla, whose fastest chargers currently offer a 15-minute charge for a 275-kilometer range. BYD plans to integrate this technology into its upcoming models, such as the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV, and aims to establish over 4,000 ultra-fast charging stations across China.
This initiative addresses the critical issue of range anxiety among potential EV buyers, making electric vehicles a more viable option for a broader audience. By combining large-scale energy storage solutions with rapid charging infrastructure, China is setting a new standard in the global transition to sustainable transportation.
The Mechanics Behind China's Gravity-Based Energy Storage
China’s innovative approach to energy storage includes the development of gravity-based systems, such as the EVx project by Energy Vault. This system utilizes surplus renewable energy to lift heavy blocks to higher elevations, storing potential energy. When energy is needed, these blocks are lowered, converting potential energy back into electricity through regenerative braking systems.
This method offers a sustainable alternative to chemical batteries, reducing reliance on finite resources and minimizing environmental impact. The first commercial-scale EVx system was connected to China’s grid in December 2023, marking a significant milestone in renewable energy integration. This technology provides a resilient and efficient solution for energy storage, capable of operating under various environmental conditions without the degradation issues associated with traditional batteries.
By adopting such gravity-based systems, China is addressing the intermittency challenges of renewable energy sources, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for its growing energy demands.
China's Comprehensive Strategy for EV Charging Infrastructure
China is making significant strides in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, complementing its large-scale battery projects. A notable development is BYD’s introduction of an ultra-fast charging system capable of delivering 400 kilometers (approximately 248 miles) of range in just five minutes. This advancement positions BYD ahead of competitors like Tesla, whose fastest chargers currently offer a 15-minute charge for a 275-kilometer range.
BYD plans to integrate this technology into its upcoming models, such as the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV, and aims to establish over 4,000 ultra-fast charging stations across China. This initiative addresses the critical issue of range anxiety among potential EV buyers, making electric vehicles a more viable option for a broader audience. By combining large-scale energy storage solutions with rapid charging infrastructure, China is setting a new standard in the global transition to sustainable transportation.
In addition to BYD’s efforts, other Chinese companies are also contributing to the expansion of EV charging infrastructure. For instance, NIO has partnered with CATL, the world’s largest battery manufacturer, to develop a battery-swapping network across China. This collaboration aims to create an efficient battery-swapping service, allowing EV drivers to replace depleted batteries with fully charged ones, reducing time spent at charging stations.
China's Strategic Investments in Renewable Energy Storage
China’s commitment to renewable energy is evident through its strategic investments in large-scale energy storage solutions. A notable example is the Rudong EVx project, completed in December 2023, which boasts a capacity of 100 MWh and is integrated into the national grid to provide clean, reliable electricity.
In addition to gravity-based systems, China is exploring alternative battery technologies to enhance energy storage. The country’s first large-scale sodium-ion battery energy storage station, with a capacity of 10 MWh, can charge to 90% in just 12 minutes. This facility is projected to supply 73,000 MWh of clean energy annually, powering approximately 35,000 households and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 50,000 tonnes each year.
These initiatives underscore China’s dedication to integrating renewable energy sources into its power infrastructure. By investing in diverse energy storage technologies, China aims to overcome the intermittency challenges associated with renewable energy, ensuring a stable and sustainable power supply for its growing population and industries.
China's Push for Battery Swapping Stations
China is advancing its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure by promoting battery swapping stations, offering drivers a quick alternative to traditional charging methods. This approach allows EV owners to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones in minutes, addressing concerns about charging time and battery degradation.
Leading the charge, NIO has partnered with CATL, the world’s largest battery manufacturer, to develop a comprehensive battery-swapping network across China. This collaboration aims to enhance the convenience of EV ownership by reducing downtime associated with charging. By the end of the year, NIO plans to expand its network to cover over 2,300 county-level divisions in 27 provincial-level administrative regions.
This initiative not only benefits individual consumers but also supports fleet operations, such as taxis and delivery services, where time efficiency is crucial. By integrating battery swapping into its EV ecosystem, China addresses infrastructure challenges and accelerates the adoption of electric mobility nationwide.
China's Pioneering Role in Solid-State Battery Development
China is at the forefront of solid-state battery innovation, a technology poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Solid-state batteries, which utilize solid electrolytes instead of liquid ones, offer enhanced safety, higher energy density, and longer lifespans compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
A notable player in this field is WeLion, a Chinese company specializing in semi-solid-state batteries. In collaboration with NIO, WeLion has developed a 150 kWh semi-solid-state battery pack, boasting an energy density of 360 Wh/kg. This advancement enables NIO’s ET7 sedan to achieve a remarkable range of up to 1,050 kilometers (approximately 652 miles) on a single charge. The initial shipments of these battery cells were received by NIO in June 2023, with public availability commencing in mid-2024.
Beyond automotive applications, WeLion’s semi-solid-state batteries have been integrated into large-scale energy storage projects. In June 2024, the Longquan Energy Storage project in Zhejiang province became operational, featuring a capacity of 200 MWh and utilizing WeLion’s advanced battery technology. This project underscores China’s commitment to enhancing its energy infrastructure through innovative storage solutions.
China’s investments in solid-state battery technology not only bolster its domestic EV market but also position the country as a leader in next-generation energy solutions. By addressing challenges such as energy density and safety, these advancements are pivotal in accelerating the global transition to sustainable transportation.
China's Integration of Renewable Energy with Large-Scale Battery Storage
China is advancing its renewable energy initiatives by integrating large-scale battery storage systems to stabilize its power grid. A notable development is the construction of a vanadium redox flow battery in Dalian, designed to store surplus energy from renewable sources like wind and solar. This facility aims to address the intermittency of renewable energy, ensuring a stable power supply even when generation is low.
The Dalian project, with a capacity of 200 megawatts and the ability to store 800 megawatt-hours of electricity, is among the largest of its kind globally. By storing excess energy during periods of low demand and releasing it during peak times, this battery system enhances grid reliability and supports the integration of renewable energy into the national grid.
China’s investment in such large-scale energy storage solutions demonstrates its commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable energy practices. These advancements not only contribute to domestic energy security but also position China as a leader in global renewable energy innovation.
FAQs
China is building massive battery storage systems to support its renewable energy expansion and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. These large-scale batteries store surplus solar and wind energy and release it when needed, helping balance power supply and demand. They also make ultra-fast EV charging possible without straining the electrical grid.
By storing renewable energy, large batteries ensure there’s always power available for charging stations—even during peak usage. This supports faster, more reliable EV charging and reduces reliance on fossil fuel-based power plants. It also helps eliminate “range anxiety” and makes EVs more practical for long-distance travel.
China is leading in energy innovation by investing in gravity-based storage systems, sodium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries, and battery-swapping networks. These alternatives aim to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and diversify storage solutions beyond traditional lithium-ion batteries.
Yes. China is ahead in EV infrastructure with rapid expansion of charging stations, battery-swapping services, and advanced battery technology. Companies like NIO, BYD, and CATL are setting global benchmarks and pushing the clean transportation industry forward.
China’s progress influences global energy markets by setting high standards in storage, sustainability, and innovation. Other countries are being pushed to accelerate their renewable energy and EV efforts. China’s lead in battery technology may shape how the world moves toward cleaner, more reliable power.
