China’s energy transition has taken an important step forward with the commissioning of the Ninghai pumped storage power station - a landmark project designed to stabilise the grid and integrate more renewable energy. With high demands on environmental protection, operational safety, and long-term performance, AVK delivered customised valve solutions to ensure safe, stable and efficient operation at one of the country’s most advanced pumped storage facilities.
The inauguration of Zhejiang Province’s first large-scale pumped storage power station marks an important milestone in China’s renewable energy journey - and AVK is proud to support the development of this flagship project.
A strategic project for a greener energy mix
As China accelerates its national dual carbon goals, pumped storage has emerged as one of the most efficient and reliable technologies to balance renewable energy in the grid. Recognised as a key priority in national energy planning, construction of the Ninghai pumped storage power station began in 2018 and was officially completed in May 2025.
Over seven years of development and an investment of approximately CNY 7 billion, the project has resulted in one of East China’s most significant energy assets. With an installed capacity of 1.4 million kW and a bidirectional regulation capacity of 2.8 million kW, the station now provides essential peak shaving, frequency regulation, phase modulation, and energy storage to the Zhejiang power grid - as well as operational support to neighbouring regions, including Shanghai.
The station is expected to reduce annual CO₂ emissions by 360,000 tons and increase the share of clean energy connected to the Ningbo grid.
AVK solutions engineered for extreme operating conditions
To meet the rigorous environmental and operational standards of the project, AVK delivered a tailored solution addressing both ecological discharge control and auxiliary flood relief at the lower reservoir. This includes large‑diameter submerged fixed cone valves (DN2000) equipped with a dedicated flow monitoring system.
Designed through advanced fluid dynamics simulation and precise computational verification, AVK’s fixed cone valves ensure:
- Stable operation at high flow velocity and a 160 m design head
- Accurate and flexible flow regulation
- Dynamic opening/closing and partial opening for variable discharge needs
- Reliable performance under highly demanding environmental conditions
Safe, long‑term performance near residential areas
Because the discharge tunnel outlet is located close to residential zones, the project required a solution that provides safe, quiet, and controlled operation. The AVK submerged fixed cone valves include a specially engineered flow guide hood and air make‑up system designed to reduce cavitation, limit erosion, and ensure stable discharge over the equipment’s full service life.
Supporting a sustainable energy future
As core safeguarding components of the Ninghai station, AVK valves contribute directly to the safe and stable operation of one of China’s most important new energy facilities. By combining global expertise with local manufacturing capabilities, AVK continues to deliver innovative and reliable valve solutions that support the energy transition - locally and worldwide.