The world’s first gigawatt-scale offshore solar project is underway
The world’s first gigawatt-scale offshore solar project has been successfully connected to the grid and power generation has started, according to CHN Energy Investment Group (CHN Energy).
Located eight kilometers off the coast of Dongying, Shandong Province, this groundbreaking project sets a major benchmark for China and the global offshore solar industry.
The project, which has a capacity of one gigawatt, uses advanced steel truss platform technology to support 2,934 solar platforms. It is the first offshore solar initiative with large-scale fixed pile foundation structures.
When fully operational, the offshore solar facility is expected to produce 1.78 billion kilowatt hours of electricity annually. This production could replace approximately 503,800 tons of standard coal and lead to a reduction of more than 1.34 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
In addition, the project includes a “fisheries-solar integration” approach, combining aquaculture with solar energy generation to optimize the use of space. This two-pronged model is expected to increase fishing revenues while generating sustainable energy, CHN Energy said.
Jilin village benefits from photovoltaic livestock pastures
In Fuxian Village, Shuangliao City, Jilin Province, you can see cattle grazing under the organized array of blue solar panels at a unique eco-friendly power plant.
The Fuxian photovoltaic power plant, promoted by China Three Gorges Corporation, is the first project in the region to integrate photovoltaic energy with agricultural activities. This station has an installed capacity of 190,000 kilowatts and covers 521 hectares, with 257 stables.
The innovative setup combines solar energy production with cattle farming, promoting a mutually beneficial and sustainable development model.
Solar panels are mounted on both the roofs of livestock sheds and on high-bearing ground structures, optimizing energy absorption and providing sufficient space for breeding livestock. Every year, the station generates approximately 290 million kilowatt hours of clean electricity and supplies more than 300 cattle to the market.
This model has also contributed to local employment.
“My life has changed significantly since I started working in the photovoltaic cattle sheds,” said Li Huanchen, a resident of Fuxian. “In addition to a satisfying salary, I learned valuable animal husbandry techniques.”
Li further said, “I now raise fifteen cattle at home and my life is improving.”
The station supports local income growth by buying back livestock from villagers and providing technical training and access to sales channels. So far, 23 households have joined the initiative.
