China To Expand Geothermal Energy Use, Clean Power Sources

In a comprehensive approach to cleaner energy, China, the world's largest energy consumer is set to amplify its reliance on wind and solar power projects while ensuring the safe advancement of nuclear power plant construction, said Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing on Friday.

While speaking at a conference, Guoqing talked about China's proactive expansion of geothermal energy utilisation, marking a significant move towards environmental sustainability. 

At the same conference, Ma Yongsheng, chairman of the state-owned refining firm Sinopec also unveiled ambitious plans. Sinopec is gearing up to add 75 million square metres of geothermal heating capacity, striving to achieve a total of 160 million square metres by the close of 2025. 

To further underscore China's move to greener energy solutions, the National Energy Administration has proposed a 50 per cent expansion in the geothermal heating-cooling area within the five-year span from 2020, coupled with a doubling of geothermal power generation capacity.