In July 2022, supported by Energy Foundation China, a series of reports was published on how to develop an innovative building system in China that integrates solar photovoltaics, energy storage, high efficiency direct current power, and flexible loads. (PEDF). The project was led by the Building Energy Research Center at Tsinghua University, with participation of six other research institutes and companies including Shenzhen Institute of Building Research, ZKHY Energy Internet Research Institute, China Electric Power Research Institute, National Energy Internet Innovation Center (Guangdong) Co., Ltd, Nanjing Golden Cooperate DC Power Distribution Technology Co., Ltd, and CSG Shenzhen-Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Co., Ltd.

Consisting of 13 sub-projects, the research covered PEDF topics such as overall coordination, strategy planning, technical solutions, a standards system, policy mechanisms, and pilot studies. It analyzed the impact that PEDF buildings bring to a flexible energy system, against the backdrop of China’s dual goals of carbon peaking and neutrality. Shanxi’s Ruicheng city, Shenzhen Institute of Building Research’s Future Complex, Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center, Huzhou Luneng Mansion have later piloted the PEDF system.

Through these analysis and pilot efforts, the researchers identified development pathways for the PEDF building system in China’s urban and rural areas, and drafted a roadmap for the development of relevant technical solutions and standards. They hope their findings can help buildings in China move faster toward zero carbon emissions.