China launches AI-powered smart operation model for clean energy base

AI model runs on domestic computing infrastructure. 

China has launched its first artificial intelligence (AI)-powered smart operation model for a 10-million-kilowatt integrated hydropower, wind, and solar energy base, Xinhua reported.

The model, developed by Yalong River Hydropower Development Co., Ltd., will be used at the Yalong River integrated clean energy base in Sichuan Province. It supports resource forecasting, power dispatching, plant operations and electricity market trading.

The AI model runs on domestic computing infrastructure and is supported by China's first high-altitude cavern-based intelligent computing center.

According to the developer, the system extends river runoff forecasting from about 10 days to 60 days, enables real-time reservoir operation adjustments and achieves more than 96% accuracy in identifying faults in photovoltaic equipment.

Chen Deliang, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said the model integrates resource forecasting with power operation decisions, allowing energy management to shift from reactive adjustments to predictive operations.

The Yalong River basin is one of China's largest integrated clean energy bases, with installed clean energy capacity projected to reach 78 million kilowatts by 2035.

Zhao Zenghai, vice president of the China Renewable Energy Engineering Institute, said the model is the country's first full-chain intelligent solution for a 10-million-kilowatt-class clean energy base and could serve as a model for similar projects.

The launch follows China's announcement in May of 51 "AI+Energy" application scenarios as part of efforts to expand AI use in the energy sector.