HE is actively establishing a multi-level integrated research system comprised of basic research, new product development and manufacturing technology. It has set up a National Research Center for Power Generation Equipment, a National Engineering Technology Research Center for Hydropower Generation Equipment, a National Key Laboratory for Hydropower Generation Equipment and two National-level Research Institutions. Additionally, HE has added two postdoctoral workstations: the Fuel Machine Academic Workstation and the Explosion-proof Electric Machine Academic Workstation. HE attaches importance to corporate responsibilities, the development of green and sustainable resources, and the development and application of clean and efficient power technologies. HE is currently developing the 1,000 MW ultra-supercritical air-cooled turbine, the 600 MW supercritical circulating fluidized boiler and the 1,000 MW water-turbine generator set. Furthermore, HE's 'R&D and application of ultra-supercritical coal-fired generator technology', together with its 'Development and engineering application of the supercritical 600 MW thermal power generation unit' won the National First Prize for Progress in Science and Technology.

HEI possesses its own electric power research institute: the HE Electric Power Research Institute, the predecessor of which was the Harbin Huitong Electric Engineering Co., Ltd.

In 2012, HEI increased their holdings in Harbin Huitong Electric Engineering Co., Ltd by RMB 7 million yuan to become the dominant share holder, and set up the HE Electric Power Research Institute. The established institute has its own professional power plant commissioning, operation and maintenance engineers who focus on turbines, boilers, high pressure, relay control, I&C and chemistry. The institute is capable of contracting the overall startup of a power plant, commissioning, disciplinary technical training, unit operation and various related technical services.

The main business scope of the institute includes the design of power plants and of industrial control systems, software programming, system integration, computer network engineering development, power plant commissioning, unit performance tests, procurement and sale of electric equipment, electronic products, power plant laboratory instruments, and industrial control equipment.

The HE Electric Power Research Institute takes advantage of its high-tech edge to realize continuous innovation. Through hard work the institute strives to create a highly efficient, fast paced, professional team that specializes in integrating products supply, installation, commissioning, training and operation.