The State Key Laboratory of Catalysis (SKLC) in Dalian, China, is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions for energy storage and aviation. Led by electrochemist Zhongwei Chen, the lab's research focuses on enhancing energy density and safety in batteries, with a particular interest in solid-state batteries to revolutionize lithium-ion technology. Chen's team has developed novel materials such as lithiated zeolite for lithium-ion batteries and confined solid-state electrolytes for lithium metal batteries to increase energy density and safety. Additionally, SKLC is exploring the integration of AI in energy material research to advance battery management solutions and enhance performance. The lab's efforts extend to battery recycling, where a one-step process for regenerating spent cathodes has been developed to improve efficiency and reduce costs significantly. Furthermore, SKLC is pioneering hybrid fuel cell-battery systems for electric aircraft, aiming to address the energy density and safety challenges in aviation. By combining fuel cells and batteries, the lab envisions providing flights with higher power output while meeting the energy demands of take-off and climbing. Overall, the State Key Laboratory of Catalysis is making significant strides in the development of green energy technologies, battery innovations, and sustainable practices to contribute to China's 'dual carbon' goal of carbon neutrality by 2060.