CHN Energy’s groundbreaking 1GW offshore photovoltaic (PV) project in Kenli District, Shandong Province, is reshaping the landscape of renewable energy, marking a significant milestone that could set the tone for future developments in the sector. This ambitious project, touted as the largest of its kind globally, has successfully connected its first batch of PV units to the grid, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Nestled 8 kilometers off the eastern coast of Dongying City, the project spans an impressive 1,223 hectares and boasts 2,934 PV platforms. Each platform, measuring 60 meters in length and 35 meters in width, is anchored by large-scale offshore steel truss platform fixed-pile foundations. This innovative design not only maximizes the use of marine areas but also integrates a unique fishing and PV development model, allowing for fish farming alongside power generation. It’s a classic win-win situation, optimizing resource use while contributing to energy production.
The project’s technical prowess is equally noteworthy. It employs a pioneering 66kV offshore cable paired with an onshore cable, a first in China’s PV sector for high-capacity, long-distance transmission. The submarine cables stretch 142.5 kilometers, while their land counterparts measure 143 kilometers, linking to a new 220kV onshore substation. This modular power generation system with a centralized grid connection is set to produce a staggering 1.78 billion kilowatt-hours of power annually, enough to meet the energy needs of approximately 2.67 million urban residents.
From an environmental perspective, the implications are profound. The project is projected to save around 503,800 tonnes of standard coal and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 1.344 million tonnes. These figures underscore the critical role that such large-scale renewable initiatives can play in combating climate change, particularly in a country like China, which has been grappling with severe air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
The approval of this project by China’s State Council and the Ministry of Natural Resources in July 2024 signals a robust commitment to renewable energy. As the world increasingly pivots towards sustainability, projects like this not only enhance energy security but also serve as a blueprint for future offshore renewable developments. It’s a clear message that the future of energy is not just terrestrial; the oceans are ripe for harnessing.
In the broader context, CHN Energy’s initiative aligns with global trends toward integrated energy solutions. The successful execution of this project could inspire similar ventures worldwide, encouraging other nations to explore offshore PV options, particularly in regions with abundant marine resources. Moreover, with SEG Solar’s recent announcement of a 5GW integrated PV industrial park in Indonesia, the momentum is building across Southeast Asia and beyond, indicating that the renewable energy revolution is just getting started.
As we look ahead, the developments in Shandong Province may well serve as a catalyst for innovation in the renewable energy sector, challenging traditional norms and opening up new avenues for sustainable development. The energy landscape is changing, and it’s projects like these that are steering the ship toward a greener horizon.
