Flexibility, system integration and lifecycle value will become increasingly important to building resilient and efficient energy systems as the global energy transition progresses, according to Dr. Zhuang Cai, General Manager of the Product Business Center at Sungrow’s Energy Storage Business Unit.
Speaking at a panel hosted by BloombergNEF during the Hong Kong Green Tech Leadership Dialogue 2026, Cai discussed the evolving requirements of energy systems alongside executives from Stonepeak, EVE Energy and HSBC.
Cai said future power systems will need flexibility across multiple timescales, ranging from seconds and minutes to hours, days and seasons. He noted that no single technology can address every application, increasing the need for integrated solutions that combine different technologies based on specific system requirements.
The energy storage executive highlighted a shift from supplying individual equipment toward scenario-based energy solutions. This could include integrating photovoltaic systems with energy storage, as well as coordinating wind power, hydrogen and other emerging energy technologies.
He also pointed to the growing role of different storage technologies, including lithium-ion batteries, flow batteries, compressed air and hydrogen, which can address different technical and economic requirements. According to Cai, manufacturers will increasingly need to match these technologies with specific applications.
At the system level, Cai emphasized modularity and platformization, saying energy storage systems should be designed as flexible building blocks. Power, energy and control modules could be configured according to the requirements of different applications rather than being tied to a single technology pathway.
Software-Hardware Integration
Cai also highlighted the increasing importance of software in managing complex energy systems. As multiple energy assets are integrated, software will need to enable communication, coordination and intelligent operation across different assets.
He said software capabilities will increasingly need to be tailored to specific scenarios and operating conditions, helping optimize the performance of interconnected energy infrastructure.
Localization Gains Importance as Companies Expand Globally
Cai further emphasized localization as an important part of international expansion for Chinese energy companies. Beyond establishing local manufacturing or R&D facilities, he said companies need to develop local talent, comply with regional regulations and ESG requirements, and build relationships with local communities.
He also stressed the importance of transparent compliance in areas such as data security and technology. Strong local compliance and operational transparency, he said, can help companies build trust with customers and partners while supporting long-term growth in overseas markets.
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