Study on the Theoretical Framework and Evaluation Index of Power Grids with High Carrying Capacity

Power grids are critical energy infrastructure for the security of energy supply. With the new-type power system dominated by renewable energy has led the direction of future power grid development, the role of power grids has evolved over the decades. In addition to its energy value, power girds contribute to economic development, social welfare, ecological development, and governance. This study summarized China’s achievements in the development of power grids and analyzed the current environment and requirements for future development. Based on the evolving demands of power grids, we proposed a theoretical framework and a comprehensive carrying capacity index for high carrying power grids that evaluates the overall carrying capacity of a power grid from five aspects, i.e., energy security, economic development, people’s livelihoods, ecological priority, and social governance. Furthermore, the study proposed ways to promote the transformation and upgrade of power grids to drive the development of high carrying power grids and their transformation to the Energy Internet.