At present global energy transition is characterized by the development trend of "centering on renewable energy power, emphasizing both security and resilience, and pursuing multi-pathway coordination". In China, the energy revolution has also entered a critical stage of system reconstruction. Notably, relying solely on large-scale expansion of single type of energy is no longer feasible to address the systemic challenges posed by high proportions of renewable energy consumption, energy distribution across time and space, and diversified energy needs. Against this background, China Oil & Gas Pipeline Network Corporation has proposed the strategic concept of "substance-energy network" as a new type of energy infrastructure.
The substance-energy network transcends the traditional boundaries between power grids and pipeline networks, representing a deep integration and systematic upgrade of the energy system. By opening up collaborative conversion channels between material flows (such as oil, gas, hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol) and energy flows (such as electrical energy and chemical energy), it promotes the coordinated operation of multiple networks including power grids and pipeline networks, forming a more flexible and resilient energy system. The substance-energy network provides solutions for large-scale renewable energy consumption, high-reliability energy security, and areas in which direct electrification is difficult.
The network consists of three subsystems: conversion, storage and transportation, and dispatching:
- Conversion subsystem manages the transformation between material carriers and energy forms through four modes (energy-to-substance, substance-to-substance, substance-to-energy, energy-to-energy).
- Storage and transportation subsystem provides transmission channels for material carriers and energy forms within the substance-energy network for the new energy system. Responsible for transporting energy and substances from the supply side to the demand side, this subsystem encompasses oil and gas pipelines, power grids, and storage facilities.
- Dispatching subsystem serves as the "brain" and neural network of the substance-energy network. Acting as a unified dispatching platform for energy infrastructure, it coordinates the operations of the conversion subsystem and the storage and transportation subsystem alongside application systems to achieve optimal allocation and efficient utilization of energy. This subsystem includes intelligent dispatching platforms, communication networks, and metering, monitoring, and control devices.
To advance the transition of the substance-energy network from concept to reality, it is necessary to build a four-dimensional collaborative framework encompassing physical and digital infrastructure, technological drive, model empowerment, and policy support. First, strengthen the unified planning and deployment of new energy infrastructure, and leverage the wide distribution advantages of oil and gas pipeline networks and other facilities to realize real-time monitoring and coordinated regulation throughout the entire process of production, conversion, storage, and transportation.
Second, tackle core theories and technologies such as the mechanisms of energy-substance conversion, coordination between pipeline networks and power grids, and adaptation for multi-category medium pipeline transportation.
Third, innovate business models and provide full-chain services spanning "customized conversion + storage, transportation, and distribution + data monitoring + metering and settlement" based on fair and open pipeline transportation services.
Finally, accelerate the development of market rules, regulatory policies, and standard systems to provide forward-looking institutional guarantees.
As a new type of energy infrastructure that meets the transition requirements, the substance-energy network is ushering in critical development opportunities in terms of system, market, industry, and technology. Looking ahead, through continuous technological breakthroughs, system collaboration, and value reconstruction, the substance-energy network will play an important role in China's energy system transformation, energy security, and the achievement of the "carbon peaking and carbon neutrality" goals.
