The Impact of Disruptive Technologies on the Evolution of New Power Systems Under the Double Carbon Targets

The goals of carbon peaking, carbon neutrality, and climate change mitigation have introduced new requirements for the development of our country's energy system. Transformation of the energy and power system is necessary, and disruptive technologies can play a significant role in facilitating a safe and low-carbon transition. This paper begins by analyzing the impact of the dual-carbon target on the development of disruptive technologies, drawing on the theory of techno-social system transformation. Subsequently, it examines the development process, characteristics, and future trends of pumped storage as a case study. Lastly, utilizing a multi-level analysis framework, it constructs a transformational development pathway for China's new power system. The analysis findings reveal that effective utilization of disruptive technologies is essential for the establishment of a new power system, while also emphasizing the need for improved coordination among the landscape, regime, and niche levels. At the landscape level, it is crucial to establish a national carbon emission budget system, set emissions budgets and decarbonization plans for the power sector, and develop industry-wide zero-carbon timelines. At the regime level, emphasis should be placed on building a new power market management mechanism and operational model that can adapt to high levels of renewable energy integration. Furthermore, at the niche level, accelerating research and development of new energy storage technologies and promoting the deep integration of energy and information technology are of utmost importance.