The once-desolate coal mining hub in North China’s Shanxi province is experiencing a resurgence, as machines and workers are now busy amidst the cold winds, heralding a new era of energy development.
Located in Datong city, the wind power photovoltaic project, dubbed the “Jinbei coal-mining subsidence area new energy base project,” is transforming a coal-mining subsidence area into a bustling center of renewable energy. With construction commencing earlier this year, the project is slated to commence production by the end of 2025.
With a total investment of approximately 55 billion yuan ($7.6 billion), the project aims to generate six million kilowatts of electricity, marking a significant shift towards sustainable energy practices.
Coal-mining subsidence areas, characterized by ground collapse following underground coal extraction, pose environmental and infrastructural challenges. However, Shanxi’s abundant coal resources have led to extensive mining activities, resulting in large subsidence areas spanning 3,000 square kilometers.
Wang Peng, an official from the Shanxi Provincial Energy Bureau, emphasized the strategic importance of developing new energy projects in these areas. Such initiatives not only enhance the comprehensive utilization of energy resources but also capitalize on the convenient locations of subsidence areas, often situated near industrial zones or urban peripheries, thereby minimizing power grid transmission losses.
Furthermore, repurposing abandoned land for new energy projects not only reduces construction costs but also yields benefits for local communities. Photovoltaic power stations, like the one in Shangshenjian township of Datong, have become sources of employment for residents. Fan Chao, overseeing the project, highlighted that a significant portion of the workforce comprised local hires during construction, with 80 percent of maintenance personnel being locals upon completion.
Shanxi has already established photovoltaic power stations in coal-mining subsidence areas capable of collectively generating three million kilowatts of electricity. This trend extends beyond Shanxi, with provinces such as Shandong and Anhui also undertaking similar initiatives.
Wang underscored the dual benefits of such endeavors, emphasizing their role in revitalizing wasteland management while driving forward the development of renewable energy. As China continues to embrace the transition towards new energy, initiatives like these pave the way for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.