Hello, dear readers! Welcome to our latest edition of climate news from China, where we bring you exciting developments and projects in the field of sustainability and environmental protection.

Massive CO₂ Mineralized Concrete Project Kicks Off in Jiaxing

Recently, Qingbu Zero Carbon and Zhejiang University launched a significant demonstration project in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, focusing on the mineralization of CO₂ in concrete. This project, the first of its kind in China, aims to utilize low-carbon concrete in commercial applications. It significantly reduces the carbon footprint of construction materials.

According to Li Yafang, R&D Director at Qingbu Zero Carbon, the project employs the most advanced "CO₂ microcrystallization mineralized concrete" technology in China. This technology enhances concrete performance and achieves efficient CO₂ utilization and storage. The project's first phase has been completed, with significant economic benefits expected. The carbon footprint of the mineralized concrete is notably lower than traditional methods, promising substantial CO₂ sequestration potential annually.

Key figures at the launch emphasized the importance of establishing standards for these innovative materials, highlighting the project's potential to revolutionize the construction industry.

Read more here.

Tencent's Carbon Seek Program Fuels CCUS Innovations

Building on the momentum of innovation, Tencent's Carbon Seek Program is making headlines with its billion-dollar funding initiative to discover and scale cutting-edge CCUS technologies.

Linhe Climate Technology's pioneering DAC system, which captures CO₂ from the air with unprecedented efficiency, is among the highlighted projects. Tencent and its partners are providing substantial support, pushing these technologies from the lab to industrial application, and setting the stage for significant advancements in carbon capture and utilization. Read more here.

The 13 projects that have been announced by Tencent include:

  • North China Electric Power University: Phase Change Absorption-Catalytic Decomposition-Conversion Utilization Technology Demonstration
  • Zhejiang University: Flexible Modular Ultra-Low Energy Direct Air Capture Device
  • Institute of Process Engineering, CAS: CO2 Capture and Purification Technology for the Steel Industry
  • University of Science and Technology Beijing: Carbon2Rock Steelmaking Slag Selective Adjustment and Utilization Integrated Technology
  • Tianjin Green Power Technology Co., Ltd.: Green Electric CO2-to-Value-Added Aviation Fuel
  • Yuanli Chemical Technology (Tianjin) Co., Ltd.: Large-Scale Low-Cost Carbon Dioxide Chemical Mineralization and Sealing Utilization Technology
  • DeepCarbon Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.: Efficient Carbon Capture Technology for Industrial Waste Gas
  • Suzhou Leaf Biology Degradable New Material Co., Ltd.: CO2-Based PPC Multifunctional and Environmentally Friendly Products
  • Mirae Climate Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd.: Asia's First DAC Device and Core Technology
  • Nanjing Green Biochemical Technology Co., Ltd.: Combined Biological and Chemical Driven CO2 Fixation and Utilization
  • China Geological Survey Hydrology Bureau: CO2 Storage Monitoring and Comprehensive Utilization Technology System
  • Tongji University: East China Sea Basin CO2 Fast Sequestration Technology and Application
  • Beijing Normal University: CCUS Project Emission Reduction Measurement and Accounting Mathematics

Call for Stricter Reviews and Improved Bidding for Photovoltaic Projects

Transitioning from carbon capture to renewable energy, industry leaders in China's photovoltaic sector have proposed new guidelines to ensure higher standards for new and existing solar projects. The recommendations, which received positive responses from national authorities, aim to enhance the quality and innovation of photovoltaic products. This shift will not only improve the efficiency of solar energy projects but also foster a more competitive and sustainable market. Read more here.

National Energy Administration Advances Wind and Solar Power Bases

Continuing our focus on renewable energy, the National Energy Administration recently held a video conference to discuss renewable energy development.

In the first quarter of the year, China added 63.76 million kW of renewable energy capacity, accounting for 91.8% of new power installations, a 34.5% increase year-on-year. Renewable energy generation reached 690.3 billion kWh, making up 30.9% of total power generation, a 16.1% increase year-on-year.

However, some regions experienced lower utilization rates for wind and solar power, and imbalances in project construction were noted. The administration emphasized the need to accelerate the construction of three large batches of wind and solar power bases, with regular monitoring and timely project completion to ensure balanced development and high-quality growth in the renewable energy sector. Read more here.

Longi Unveils World’s First Photovoltaic "Lighthouse Factory"

Last but not least, Longi's Jiaxing Base has opened its doors to the public as the world's first photovoltaic "lighthouse factory." The Longi Jiaxing base was established in 2020 and primarily produces Longi's BC series of high-efficiency solar cell modules.

Currently, it has three factories: Jiaxing Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III, covering a total area of over 1300 mu (approximately 213 acres). With 51 intelligent production lines, the overall module capacity exceeds 35GW, making it one of the largest industrial clusters in the industry.

This state-of-the-art facility, recognized by the World Economic Forum, showcases the transformative power of AI and digital technologies in manufacturing high-efficiency solar modules. Read more here.

As we wrap up this edition, we hope you found these updates as inspiring as I did. Stay tuned for more exciting news in our next newsletter. Until then, let's keep championing the cause of a cleaner, more sustainable world.

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