Imagine a sandy wasteland turning into a blossoming green valley 🌱🔋!
At the heart of this transformation is a China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) project in Keyouzhong Banner, China's Hinggan League, Inner Mongolia. It blends 300 MW of solar panels with desert-friendly grasses, creating a "grass-solar" partnership to fight desert spread.
Between and under the panels, they’ve planted over 11,000 mu (~750 hectares) of drought-tolerant grasses—ryegrass, green foxtail, alfalfa and more. The shade and cooler temperatures boost grass growth, lifting vegetation cover from under 50% to over 70%.
Beyond generating clean power, this project cuts 350,000 tons of CO2 yearly and supports local herders: they can harvest forage for free, rent planting gear, or work on-site for extra income. Talk about a win-win! 💪
Of course, challenges remain—helping grasses survive harsh winters and adjusting panel-cleaning machines so they don’t harm vegetation. As Xu Xiang, the project’s electrical manager, says, "With research and perseverance, every hurdle can be overcome."
Meanwhile, eastern Inner Mongolia is greening heavy industry too. Huomei Hongjun Aluminum & Power Co. now uses 45% green electricity in aluminum production—earning its "green aluminum" label and cutting carbon in a traditionally energy-hungry process. ⚙️
From sandy dunes to a "green energy valley," Inner Mongolia’s new energy drive offers a blueprint for regions across South and Southeast Asia. It shows that smart renewable design and local engagement can deliver ecological wins and economic growth hand in hand.
Reference(s):
Sandy wasteland to green valley: Inner Mongolia's new energy drive
cgtn.com
