Raphael Oni
As foreign journalists, we were thrilled to embark on a journey to witness China’s pioneering efforts in renewable energy. Our destination was the Shouhang Dunhuang 100MW concentrated solar power (CSP) plant, nestled in the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert in Dunhuang, Gansu Province.
Upon arrival, we were struck by the sheer scale of the project. The solar field, comprising over 12,000 mirrors, stretched as far as the eye could see, glistening in the scorching desert sun. We were warmly welcomed by Mr. Liu Fuguo, the Project Manager, who graciously shared his insights about the project.
As we walked through the facility, Mr. Liu elaborated on the molten salt tower system, which enables the plant to generate electricity even during periods of low sunlight. The system’s efficiency and innovative design left us impressed. We were fascinated by the seamless integration of technology and human expertise in the control room, where engineers and technicians monitored the plant’s performance, making adjustments as needed to optimize energy production.
When asked about potential collaborations with African countries, Mr. Liu revealed that the company’s only project on the continent is currently located in Botswana. We inquired about any potential links with Nigeria, but Mr. Liu explained that, as of now, they do not have any projects in Nigeria.
Our visit culminated in a meeting with Mr. Liu, who shared his vision for a sustainable future. He emphasized China’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy. As we departed the Shouhang Dunhuang 100MW plant, we felt inspired by China’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. This project serves as a shining example of the country’s efforts to combat climate change and ensure a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.
