World's first gigawatt-scale offshore solar project begins operation

World's first gigawatt-scale offshore solar project begins operation
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Nov 14, 2024

The world's first gigawatt-scale offshore solar power project has successfully been connected to the grid and started power generation, according to CHN Energy Investment Group (CHN Energy).

Situated eight kilometers offshore from Dongying, Shandong province, this groundbreaking project sets an important benchmark for China and the global offshore solar industry.

The project, which boasts a capacity of one gigawatt, utilizes advanced steel truss platform technology to support 2,934 solar platforms. It stands as the first offshore solar initiative to feature large-scale fixed pile foundation construction.

When fully operational, the offshore solar installation is expected to produce 1.78 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. This output could replace approximately 503,800 metric tons of standard coal and lead to a reduction of over 1.34 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

Additionally, the project incorporates a "fishing-solar integration" approach, blending aquaculture with solar power generation to optimize the use of space. This dual-purpose model is anticipated to enhance fisheries revenue while generating sustainable energy, CHN Energy noted.

Village in Jilin benefits from photovoltaic cattle pasture
In Fuxian village, Shuangliao city, Jilin province, cattle can be seen grazing under the organized array of blue solar panels at a unique eco-friendly power station.

The Fuxian Photovoltaic Power Station, promoted by China Three Gorges Corporation, is the first project in the region to integrate photovoltaic power with agricultural activity. This station has an installed capacity of 190,000 kilowatts and spans 521 hectares, featuring 257 livestock sheds.

The innovative setup merges solar energy production with beef cattle farming, fostering a mutually beneficial and sustainable development model.

Solar panels are mounted on both the rooftops of livestock sheds and on high-support ground structures, optimizing energy capture and providing ample space for breeding cattle. Annually, the station generates around 290 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity and supplies more than 300 cattle to the market.

This model has also contributed to local employment opportunities.

"My life has changed significantly since I started working at the photovoltaic livestock sheds," said Li Huanchen, a resident of Fuxian. "In addition to a satisfactory salary, I have learned valuable cattle breeding techniques."

Li further mentioned, "I now raise 15 cattle at home, and my life is improving."

The station supports local income growth by purchasing cattle back from villagers and offering technical training and access to sales channels. So far, 23 households have joined the initiative.