In October, a delegation from the Electric Systems for Energy research group was hosted by Huawei at its research centers in Shenzhen, Dongguan, and Shanghai.
Professor Maurizio Delfanti, from the Department of Energy, together with researchers Filippo Bovera and Giuliano Rancilio, had the opportunity to visit the main sites where Huawei carries out technological development and experimental activities on electrochemical storage systems and power conversion systems serving batteries and photovoltaic plants.

In addition to a steadily growing photovoltaic capacity in recent years, the Italian market has recently seen increasing interest from operators in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Thanks to a mechanism known as MACSE, Italy has secured the installation of at least 10 GWh of new storage capacity in the coming years at highly competitive prices, with a further 40 GWh planned within the same framework by 2030.

In this context, research and development activities focusing on the evolution of electricity markets and their regulation, as well as on maintaining the security, stability, and efficiency of power systems, are of crucial importance. Recent economic events—such as the surge in energy prices caused by Europe’s dependence on Russian gas supplies—and technical events—such as the Iberian blackout (previously analyzed by the Department within an inquiry broadcast by Presa Diretta)—further underline the relevance of these topics.

Among the various developments discussed during the visit, particular emphasis was given to the topic of Grid Forming, a technological solution enabling the safe and efficient evolution of the power system towards a 100% renewable scenario. This will be a key focus of upcoming joint research activities between Huawei and the Department of Energy, also supported by funded research projects that will start in the coming months.