Janice R. Andrews
China’s northeastern Daqing Oil Field, once the backbone of the nation’s oil industry, is now leading a clean energy transformation. Spanning 100 square kilometers, the Lamadian Oil Field has produced 360 million tons of crude oil over six decades. Today, it’s embracing a hybrid energy ecosystem, integrating solar panels and wind turbines to power its operations sustainably.
Since 2023, Daqing’s wind and solar projects have generated over 200 million kilowatt-hours of electricity, enough to power 70,000 urban households annually. Technician Kan Baochun from the No. 6 Oil Production Plant highlights the region’s abundant renewable resources, with solar and wind energy utilization reaching 1,400 and 3,000 hours per year, respectively. Clean energy now meets one-third of the oilfield’s total power needs.
By 2030, Daqing aims to replace 60% of its energy consumption with renewables, aligning with China’s goal to achieve peak carbon emissions. This shift is critical for Heilongjiang province, where harsh winters demand significant natural gas for heating. Daqing has long supplied gas to cities like Harbin, and its clean energy transition is also supporting major events like the Asian Winter Games.
Zhang Zhe, a technician at Daqing’s Gas Field Management Department, emphasizes the measures taken to ensure reliable natural gas supply during the Games, including increased inspections and emergency preparedness.
Daqing’s transformation symbolizes China’s broader push toward a greener future, blending its industrial legacy with innovative renewable energy solutions. This hybrid energy ecosystem not only reduces carbon emissions but also sets a benchmark for sustainable development in traditional industrial hubs.
