CATL Leads Global ESS Battery Market in H1 2026 as Non-China Demand Surpasses China

Global energy storage system (ESS) battery shipments surged in the first half of 2026, reaching 461.3 GWh, a 71% year-on-year increase. This growth is notable as non-Chinese markets have now overtaken China in terms of shipment share, reflecting a diversification of demand across regions.

CATL maintained its leadership with a 27.1% share of the global ESS battery market, according to data from SNE Research. The company continues to dominate despite intensifying competition from other Chinese and international battery makers.

China’s share of global ESS shipments declined to 43.9% from 50.5% in the prior year period, highlighting a shift towards markets in North America, Europe, and other regions, which are expanding their energy storage capacities to support renewable energy integration.