In recent years, the Hainan branch of CHN Energy Investment Group (CHN Energy) has leveraged distributed photovoltaic systems to catalyze rural revitalization in Tangbei village, Chengmai county, Hainan province.
An overview of the distributed photovoltaic project in Tangbei village, Chengmai county, Hainan province [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
By integrating public building rooftops, open public spaces, and contracted lands owned by villagers, the group has built a 106,000-square-meter distributed PV station. This initiative not only advances renewable energy adoption but also serves as a new driver for local economic growth, setting a pathway for innovative rural development that combines smart photovoltaics, modern agriculture, and tourism.
At the distributed PV project site outside Tangbei village, ducks raised by local villagers roam freely. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
The unique geography in Tangbei village, characterized by flooding during rains and drought during dry spells, limits traditional crop farming. However, areas with perennial waterlogging provide ideal conditions for aquaculture and grazing. Ducks, geese, and sheep thrive here, benefiting from abundant fish, shrimp, and water vegetation, demonstrating the economic viability of a complementary “solar-agriculture” model.
Solar panels generate electricity while shading the water below, lowering temperatures and improving aquaculture yields. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
Low-lying sections of the project site have been transformed into ponds, enhancing the dual-use potential of the land. Solar panels generate electricity while shading the water below, lowering temperatures and improving aquaculture yields. This integration maximizes economic and environmental benefits, turning previously underutilized land into productive assets.
The Tangbei PV revitalization project is tailored to local conditions, incorporating PV greenhouses to grow shade- and water-loving crops. These efforts align with the village's ambitions to create a research and education brand, offering experiential learning and skill-building platforms that integrate agriculture, renewable energy, and eco-tourism.
The Tangbei PV revitalization project is tailored to local conditions, incorporating PV greenhouses to grow shade- and water-loving crops. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
In addition, the project includes logistical hubs and agricultural product sorting centers, fostering a diversified rural economy. By extending the industrial chain, it provides a multifunctional platform for knowledge sharing, practical training, and natural exploration, contributing to long-term rural development.
The project is nearing completion, with the final road construction underway. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
Currently, the project is nearing completion, with the final road construction underway. Preliminary estimates indicate that through rooftop leasing and discounted electricity rates, participating households can increase their annual income by approximately 1,800 yuan ($246.61). Over its 25-year operational period, the project is expected to generate an additional 20 million yuan for the village, create local job opportunities, and strengthen the village's collective economy.
(Executive editor: Wang Ruoting)
