China Plans 180 GW Energy Storage Expansion by 2027

China plans to more than double its battery energy storage capacity to 180 gigawatts by 2027, supported by an estimated investment of 250 billion yuan ($35.1 billion), according to a new plan jointly issued by the National Development and Reform Commission and the National Energy Administration. This expansion focuses on 'new energy storage' technologies primarily comprising lithium-ion batteries, excluding pumped hydro storage, to support the rapidly growing deployment of solar and wind power and stabilize the grid amid renewable intermittency. China has already surpassed its 2025 target of 30 GW two years ahead of schedule, with current installed capacity reaching approximately 95-100 GW as of mid-2025, solidifying its position as the world's largest battery storage market. The country's aggressive investment in clean energy infrastructure outpaces fossil fuel investments and is expected to influence global supply chains and technology development in the renewable sector. By comparison, the United States had about 26 GW of utility-scale battery storage at the end of 2024, highlighting China's dominant role in scaling energy storage. Industry experts view this move as crucial for enhancing energy security and reducing fossil fuel reliance while managing the challenges of integrating intermittent renewable energy sources.