China is building a “Great Photovoltaic Wall”

China is undertaking an ambitious renewable energy project known as the “Solar Great Wall,” which aims to generate enough electricity to meet all of Beijing’s needs by 2030. Here are the key details about this groundbreaking initiative: The Solar Great Wall will stretch approximately 400 kilometers (about 250 miles) along the Yellow River in northern China, specifically in the Kubuqi Desert region of Inner Mongolia.

The wall will be 5 kilometers (approximately 3 miles) wide.

It is expected to achieve a maximum generating capacity of 100 gigawatts, with an annual output projected at 180 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh), significantly exceeding Beijing’s current consumption of around 135.8 billion kWh per year.
Environmental and Economic Impact

The project is designed not only to produce renewable energy but also to combat desertification in the region. It aims to restore ecological balance by providing shade and preventing soil erosion, which can improve local environmental conditions.

China’s “Solar Great Wall” aims to generate 100 gigawatts by 2030, providing renewable energy for Beijing, creating 50,000 jobs, combating desertification, and investing up to $100 billion in solar infrastructure along the Yellow River.

Approximately 50,000 jobs are anticipated to be created by 2030, boosting local economies and increasing average incomes for residents by over RMB 20,000 (£2,300) annually.

The installation of solar panels is expected to conserve up to 12.6 million metric tonnes of coal annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 31.3 million tonnes.
Timeline and Investment

Groundbreaking for the Solar Great Wall began in early 2024, with completion targeted for 2030. The estimated investment for the project could reach up to $100 billion, although specific financial details have not been disclosed.

As of now, about 5.4 gigawatts of solar capacity has already been installed, showcasing significant progress in this massive infrastructure project.

The Solar Great Wall represents a critical component of China’s strategy to transition towards renewable energy and achieve carbon neutrality. By harnessing solar power on such a large scale, China hopes to set a precedent for similar initiatives globally while addressing both energy needs and environmental concerns.

By Alexander Miller, consultant in energy markets – Eurasia Business News, January 2, 2025. Article n°1360. eurasiabusinessnews.com