Alert! New Regulatory Rules for the Energy Storage Industry Take Effect Starting July

 I. GB/T 46957-2025: A Unified Universal Safety Framework for Grid-Tied Energy Storage Systems

This standard establishes the first unified safety management framework for grid-connected electric energy storage systems, covering full-lifecycle procedures including hazard identification, risk assessment, risk response, and system testing. Prior to its release, safety requirements for grid-tied energy storage facilities were scattered across various separate standards and industrial codes, with no universal safety specification covering design, construction and operation phases. The implementation of GB/T 46957 means grid-connected energy storage projects of all technical routes and application scenarios will adopt a consistent set of safety logic for risk identification and control.

 II. T/CFPA 055-2026: Specialized Guidelines for Fire Protection Design of Energy Storage Power Stations

Issued and approved by the China Fire Protection Association on April 3, 2026, the group standard T/CFPA 055-2026 Guidelines for Fire Protection Design of Electrochemical Energy Storage Power Stations also takes effect on July 1. It delivers detailed guidance on fire protection design for electrochemical energy storage plants, addressing key elements such as energy storage system layout, fire compartment division, and fire-fighting equipment deployment. The standard aims to standardize fire safety requirements throughout the planning, construction and operation stages of electrochemical energy storage stations.

 III. NDRC Decree No. 41: Inadequate Grid-Adaptive Performance of Energy Storage Classified as a "Major Safety Hazard"

Electrochemical energy storage power stations connected to power grids of 220 kV and above must be equipped with five core capabilities: low voltage ride-through, high voltage ride-through, voltage regulation, dynamic reactive power support, and frequency adaptability. Failure to meet any single criterion shall be deemed a major safety hazard.

In addition, AGC (Automatic Generation Control) and AVC (Automatic Voltage Control) systems must remain in operation as required and shall not be arbitrarily shut down. All stations shall complete a full set of grid connection tests in compliance with national standards before being authorized for grid integration. Violators will face production suspension for rectification, heavy fines, and even criminal liability.

This regulation elevates the grid-adaptive performance of energy storage PCS (Power Conversion System) from a mere technical parameter to a non-negotiable compliance threshold. Grid-forming PCS has become a mandatory configuration for newly built projects, while existing power stations are under pressure to carry out large-scale technical retrofits or full equipment replacement.