On December 2, 2020, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) issued a document (GKJFJ [2020] No. 88), approving Institute of Energy of Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center (Anhui Energy Laboratory) (hereinafter referred to as Institute of Energy) to be registered as the supporting unit of the National Natural Science Foundation of China. From 2021, researchers of Institute of Energy who meet the project application conditions of NSFC can apply for relevant projects of NSFC. The successful approval of NSFC supporting unit will further broaden the application channels for researchers of Institute of Energy and promote the gradual improvement of scientific research and innovation ability and level of our Institute. Next, Institute of Energy will earnestly perform the responsibilities of supporting units, actively organize project application and implement standardized project management in strict accordance with the relevant management measures and requirements of NSFC.