Successful Conclusion of the Third “Quality Chain Future” New Energy Industry Chain Conference by UL Solutions

On March 20-21, the third “Quality Chain Future” New Energy Industry Chain Conference organized by UL Solutions took place in Suzhou. In this critical period of global energy transition, nearly 700 professionals from the new energy sector, including UL Solutions’ global executives, technical experts, and industry leaders, gathered to engage in in-depth discussions on the core theme of energy transition, analyze industry development strategies, and outline the direction for the sector’s growth.

Among those in attendance were UL Solutions' Global Executive Vice President and President of Testing, Inspection, and Certification Business Group, <b>Zhou Weifang</b>; Senior Vice President of the Industrial Division, <b>Jeff Smidt</b>; Global Vice President and General Manager of the Engineering Materials Division, <b>Wei Wenxing</b>; Global Vice President, <b>Jason Chan</b>; General Manager for Mainland China and Hong Kong, <b>Wu Dawei</b>; and General Manager of UL Suzhou, <b>Shi Jun</b>.

During the opening remarks, Zhou Weifang stated, "As a company grounded in standards and science, UL Solutions is dedicated to helping our Chinese clients launch safe and innovative products globally. In a rapidly changing geopolitical environment, it is crucial to accelerate the development of renewable energy in response to increasing energy demands driven by population growth and data storage." He also highlighted UL Solutions’ continued expansion of services and technical capabilities in energy transformation, including a significant acquisition in 2024 that enhanced its expertise in batteries and hydrogen energy.

<h2>Diverse Perspectives and Innovative Ideas from Experts</h2>
The conference hosted numerous distinguished speakers from regulatory bodies in North America, research institutions, enterprises, insurance, and finance sectors, offering a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives. <b>Robert Marshall</b>, Deputy Chief of the San Mateo Fire Department, shared professional insights on energy storage safety based on his extensive firefighting experience. <b>Sun Jinhua</b>, a chair professor at the University of Science and Technology of China, provided academic support for technological advancements in electrochemical storage safety.

Other speakers from institutions such as Sichuan University, SANY Renewable Energy, Wuhu Shipyard, Zhongyi Insurance Brokerage, and Guotai Junan discussed various hot topics related to new energy. Jeff Smidt explored pathways and directions for energy transition, emphasizing China's leading role in this process, particularly as a major producer of new energy vehicles and a leader in charging infrastructure. Jason Chan analyzed how artificial intelligence can enhance productivity and efficiency during energy transitions while empowering third-party testing and certification organizations with robust technical capabilities to build trust within the supply chain.

<h2>Strategic Partnerships and Industry Growth</h2>
During the event, UL Solutions signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with <b>Yiwei Lithium Energy Co., Ltd.</b> This collaboration focuses on testing and certification of energy storage products and software consulting. Both parties aim to enhance compliance and integration into global supply chains while providing sustainable development and financing reports to improve market differentiation.

<h2>Recognition of High-Quality Development in the Industry</h2>
Several awards ceremonies were held during the conference, recognizing numerous companies in the new energy sector with testing and certification certificates across critical areas such as energy storage systems, charging equipment, photovoltaic components, batteries, fire suppression systems, and switches. These ceremonies not only recognized corporate strengths but also encouraged increased investment in research and development to enhance product quality and foster active participation in international competition, promoting standardization and high-quality development across the new energy industry.

<h2>Engaging Sub-forums on Key Topics</h2>
The second day of the conference featured four insightful sub-forums focusing on specific areas of the new energy sector, providing attendees with opportunities for deep discussions and learning.
<ul>
    <li><b>Sub-forum 1:</b> Focused on new technology explorations in battery applications, including energy storage and solid-state batteries.</li>
    <li><b>Sub-forum 2:</b> Addressed components and North American market access, discussing updates on 2000V system component certification.</li>
    <li><b>Sub-forum 3:</b> Covered topics like smart driving and charging technology, exploring mobile charging units and liquid cooling for DC charging stations.</li>
    <li><b>Sub-forum 4:</b> Concentrated on wind and solar systems, presenting international market access testing and compliance certification.</li>
</ul>

The successful hosting of the "Quality Chain Future" New Energy Industry Chain Conference by UL Solutions has established an efficient platform for communication and cooperation in the new energy sector. As global energy transition continues, the new energy industry is poised for further growth. UL Solutions remains committed to connecting stakeholders across the industry chain, enhancing technical innovation and collaboration to drive the high-quality development of the new energy sector, ultimately contributing to global sustainable energy goals.