Zhangjiagang is emerging as a powerhouse in China's new energy sector, with hydrogen, lithium batteries, photovoltaics, and energy storage industries advancing in parallel. The city is already home to the world's largest lithium battery electrolyte production base, while a highly competitive hydrogen corridor hub in the Yangtze River Delta region is also taking shape.
Hydrogen at the forefront of the energy transition
Hydrogen has become a defining driver of Zhangjiagang's energy transformation. The city now hosts more than 40 hydrogen-related companies, ranking among the top county-level cities in Jiangsu province. Local chemical enterprises produce over 200,000 metric tons of byproduct hydrogen annually, while Zhangjiagang has built five hydrogen refueling stations —t he most among county-level cities nationwide.
The city has established a full hydrogen value chain covering production, storage, transport, refueling, and application, with the sector targeting an output of 30 billion yuan ($417.92 million). Over 220 hydrogen-powered buses, heavy trucks, and logistics vehicles are already in operation, alongside 500 hydrogen bicycles. Together, these vehicles have traveled more than 15 million kilometers, reducing carbon emissions by more than 14,000 tons.
A truck refuels with hydrogen in Zhangjiagang. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
Looking ahead, Zhangjiagang plans to expand hydrogen applications to ships and drones. Pilot projects such as hydrogen metallurgy will further broaden the scope of low-carbon development.
Innovation-driven growth
Zhangjiagang is also strengthening its innovation ecosystem, with 15 national-level "little giant" enterprises and more than 60 high-tech firms. Platforms such as the Suzhou Hydrogen Industry Innovation Center and Zhangjiagang Qinyun Research Institute are driving breakthroughs in core technologies and industrial applications.
Lithium batteries and beyond
Zhangjiagang's hydrogen boom is also fueling the city's lithium battery sector, another pillar of its new energy industry. Local companies have established a full value chain covering upstream materials, midstream battery production, and downstream applications. Lithium batteries not only support hydrogen fuel cell systems but also serve as a cornerstone for the fast-growing electric vehicle industry.
Meanwhile, the city has attracted leading photovoltaic companies which produce solar glass, high-efficiency modules, and tracking systems, alongside enterprises specializing in lithium battery storage and vanadium flow battery storage. Together, these industries are creating a synergistic ecosystem to power Zhangjiagang's next stage of growth.