In October, 2022, with the support from Energy Foundation China, the Shenzhen Institute of Building Research completed this study on how green electricity certificates and virtual power plants can be combined with flexible energy load to decarbonize the buildings sector in China.

The research report analyzes the role of virtual power plants in realizing the interaction between buildings and power grids, compares the advantages and disadvantages of flexible-load buildings, before it proposes the direction for virtual power plants development with a test on buildings’ energy load adjustment capability, and makes recommendations for green power consumption certification. The authors of the report hope it can help lay a foundation for promoting building virtual power plants and preparing for the future when buildings participate in the power and ancillary service markets.