Chinese operators have recently connected the Dong-Su project in Inner Mongolia, recognized as the world’s largest single-site grid-forming LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery storage plant. This 1 GW/4 GWh facility utilizes lithium iron phosphate technology to provide up to four hours of energy storage, with an expected annual discharge of around 1 TWh.
- The plant’s gigawatt-level grid-forming inverters are presented as a major breakthrough, as they independently establish and maintain voltage and frequency references, unlike conventional grid-following systems.
- This advanced capability allows the facility to offer essential grid support services, including four-hour peak shifting and crucial black-start operations following major power outages.
Ultimately, this CNY 3 billion (USD 445 million) project stabilizes the regional transmission network, significantly reducing reliance on conventional synchronous generation while accommodating the large-scale integration of variable wind and solar energy.
(Picture: Dong-Su station, courtesy of the local government)