‘World’s largest’ offshore solar project with 1 GW power now operational in China

China has achieved a milestone in renewable energy with the connection of its first 1-gigawatt offshore photovoltaic (PV) project to the power grid.

This development signals a significant advancement in solar technology and sets a precedent for the global expansion of offshore solar power.

Situated in the open sea region off the coast of Dongying, Shandong Province, this project is claimed to be the largest of its kind in the world.

“The project, being the first and largest of its kind in the world, was developed by CHN Energy’s Guohua Energy Investment Co., Ltd. and will serve as a model for the development of large-scale offshore PV projects in the industry,” said the state-owned company in a press release.

“The project covers an area of approximately 1,223 hectares with a total installed capacity of 1 gigawatt.”

Use of large-scale steel truss platform piling technology

This undertaking is notable for its incorporation of advanced technologies. It is the first in the world to employ large-scale steel truss platform piling technology for offshore installations.

“This globally pioneering initiative features 2,934 PV platforms installed using large-scale offshore steel truss platform fixed pile foundations,” added the press release.

“Each platform measures 60 meters in length and 35 meters in width.”

In another first for China’s PV industry, the project utilizes 66-kilovolt offshore and onshore long-distance transmission lines.

This approach facilitates greater transmission capacity while reducing costs, contributing to the project’s overall efficiency.

Energy generation with an integrated approach

Once fully operational, the project is expected to generate 1.78 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.

This output is sufficient to meet the power needs of an estimated 2.67 million urban residents in China.

Moreover, the project tries to support China’s commitment to reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

“This is equivalent to saving an estimated 503,800 tons of standard coal and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 1.3447 million tons,” remarked the company.

Interestingly, CHN Energy aims to make the project comprehensive and inclusive.

“The project utilizes an integrated fishing and PV development model, combining fish farming with PV power generation to enhance the comprehensive utilization of the marine area,” concluded the company.

China seeks clean energy

This project reflects China’s strategic emphasis on the development of offshore PV systems as a key element of its clean energy strategy.

A few months ago, the country had inaugurated the world’s largest single-capacity offshore wind turbine. The turbine can generate 80 million kWh annually at an average wind speed of 8.5 m/s.

Meanwhile, industry analysts predict substantial growth in China’s offshore PV sector. China Forward Industry Research Institute Co estimates that the country’s offshore PV installed capacity will exceed 60 gigawatts by 2027, highlighting the sector’s potential for expansion.

The successful connection of this 1-gigawatt offshore PV project marks a pivotal step in China’s transition towards renewable energy sources.