The integration of digital intelligence technologies with demand-side resources can effectively unlock demand-side flexibility potential, and support the low-carbon transition of the power system. NRDC’s partner, the China Electric Power Research Institute, conducted research under the Power Roundtable framework to explore pathways and practices for enhancing demand-side potential through digitalization. The report outlines the digital implementation strategies for integrating demand-side resources with the grid and analyzes how digital technologies enhance flexibility in various scenarios, supported by case studies. The report also proposes evaluation metrics for digital applications and highlights key Virtual Power Plant (VPP) projects in Ningxia and Chongqing. Finally, the report identifies challenges and opportunities in improving demand-side flexibility through digitalization and provides development recommendations. 

This report was presented at the 2024 Chongqing Demand-Side Management Innovation Conference.