Ningxia plans energy overhaul for clean, low-carbon future

Ningxia authorities have unveiled a plan to transform the region's energy system based on four guiding principles: clean, low-carbon, safe and efficient, according to Wang Hanwu, director of the Ningxia Development and Reform Commission, on Tuesday.

The region is leveraging vast desert zones, including the Tengger and Mu Us sandy lands, to build large-scale wind and solar farms. Ningxia aims to install 100 million kilowatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with green power accounting for over half of its electricity supply. Near the Helan Mountains, Minning Town already operates on round-the-clock green energy through an integrated energy system, according to Wang.

Beyond power generation, Ningxia plans to increase green electricity adoption in industry, agriculture, transport and construction. By the end of this year, key sectors such as coal chemicals, silicon, and manganese-aluminum processing are expected to source more than 50 percent of their energy from renewables.

To ensure grid reliability during the transition, the region has introduced a novel capacity pricing mechanism for coal power, encouraging flexible operation to supplement renewables when needed. This strategy maintains stability while shifting coal power to a supporting role.

Efficiency measures are also critical. New energy storage and pumped hydro projects ensure over 93 percent utilization of renewable generation, while industrial energy efficiency programs help key sectors meet performance benchmarks, with advanced standards set for 2030.

With these initiatives, Ningxia is positioning itself as a leader in China's national strategy for sustainable growth, Wang added.