Staff Reporter

The abundant sunshine across Africa positions the continent as an ideal location for large-scale solar farms, a vision shared by Pan Zhan'guo, Chief Engineer at Zhongwei Longyuan New Energy Company.

Speaking to 14 journalists from English-speaking African and Asian Pacific nations, yesterday, Pan emphasized China Energy Groups readiness, to assist African countries in establishing solar infrastructure.

“Currently, the company has a successful plant in South Africa, which has inspired further collaboration with African companies seeking clean energy solutions.

"We are eager to partner with more African nations to help them tap into their vast solar potential,”  stated Pan.

The project, located at the Zhongwei Desert Photovoltaic Industrial Park, is set to produce 13 million kilowatts of solar power once completed.

Pan highlighted the environmental benefits, explaining that the project would save 1.92 million tonnes of standard coal and reduce carbon dioxide by 4.66 million tonnes of emissions annually.

"We are growing shrubs, fruit trees, vegetables, and mushrooms under the solar panels, contributing to both energy production and ecological recovery

“In addition to its energy output, the first phase of the project has brought significant ecological restoration. Vegetation coverage around the site has increased from five to 25 percent, with sand barriers and grass squares installed," Pan said.

As Africa seeks sustainable energy alternatives, the success of projects like these could provide a blueprint for the continent’s transition to clean, low-carbon power solutions.

China Energy Group’s growing involvement highlights the opportunities for international collaboration in addressing global energy needs.