Shanxi province, known for its rich energy resources, plans to develop and convert 130 coal mines into intelligent operations this year, aligning with its push for scientific innovation and modern energy systems, Governor Jin Xiangjun announced.
The adoption of intelligent mining technologies is expected to enhance efficiency, cut emissions, and modernize Shanxi’s coal industry, contributing to China’s broader green energy goals.
“Shanxi is fostering high-quality growth by leveraging local strengths and driving comprehensive energy reform,” Jin stated during his government work report at the third session of the 14th Shanxi Provincial People’s Congress, which began Friday. The province led the nation in 2024 by completing the intelligent transformation of 268 coal mines.
Energy Advances in 2024
Shanxi’s energy sector saw notable progress last year. Seven newly constructed coal mines began trial operations, ten coal mines passed inspections, and five increased their production capacities. Advanced coal production now accounts for 83 percent of the province’s total, Jin reported.
Unconventional natural gas production reached 16.5 billion cubic meters in 2024, marking a 12.7 percent year-on-year increase. The province expects its annual raw coal output from large-scale mines to hit 1.27 billion metric tons.
Jin emphasized Shanxi’s ongoing focus on unconventional natural gas storage and production, which supports the province’s energy diversification.
2025 Goals and Renewable Energy Expansion
Shanxi aims for approximately 5 percent GDP growth and over 6 percent growth in fixed-asset investment in 2025. The province plans to accelerate wind power and solar projects while advancing hydrogen energy, ammonia energy, and methanol industries.
The province seeks to achieve a clean energy installation ratio exceeding 50 percent by promoting geothermal and other renewable energy sources.
Cultural Tourism Initiatives
Shanxi also aims to strengthen its cultural tourism sector. The “Follow Wukong to Travel in Shanxi” campaign, inspired by the popular game Black Myth: Wukong, highlights the province’s rich cultural heritage, including grottoes, temples, and ancient murals.
In October, Shanxi completed China’s largest tourism road network, spanning 13,000 kilometers and connecting 5,630 villages. This infrastructure links 531 cultural heritage sites and 976 scenic spots, enhancing the integration of major tourism routes like the Yellow River, the Great Wall, and the Taihang Mountains.
“The network not only promotes rural revitalization but also positions Shanxi as a global cultural tourism destination,” Jin said.
Wang Chao, director of Jinzhong’s culture and tourism bureau, underscored the importance of preserving cultural relics while innovating to keep traditions alive. “We need to integrate culture and tourism for a vibrant transformation of Chinese heritage,” he added.
Educational Progress
Shanxi University is also contributing to the province’s development by expanding academic disciplines and boosting its competitiveness. “In 2024, we achieved breakthroughs in national research projects and recruited over 40 high-level professionals,” said Wang Yanglin, the university’s Party secretary.
As Shanxi looks ahead to 2025, the province is positioning itself as a leader in intelligent mining, renewable energy, and cultural tourism, paving the way for sustainable growth and modernization.
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