The coal mining machine at Shendong Buertai Coal Mine cuts through the coal seam. [Photo/Ejin Horoo Banner Integrated Media Center]

As winter sets in, the city of Ordos in North China's Inner Mongolia is playing a crucial role in ensuring energy supply in the country. 

On Dec 11, at the Heidaigou open-pit coal mine of the National Energy Group's Juungar Energy Group, high-quality coal from Juungar Banner, the largest coal-producing county in Ordos, was processed and transported nationwide, bringing warmth to homes far and wide.

In 2024, Ordos has once again committed to supplying 590 million metric tons of electricity coal, accounting for approximately 26.8 percent of the national total. By the end of October, around 346 million tons had been shipped, achieving a comprehensive performance rate of 78 percent.

Simultaneously, Ordos is responsible for providing a total of 105.86 million tons of coal for heating and warming purposes to seven sister cities, including Hohhot, Baotou and Hinggan League, as well as various districts and banners within the city.

The coal from Zhuanlongwan Coal Mine is transported out by train. [Photo/Ejin Horoo Banner Integrated Media Center]

From January to October this year, coal production in Ordos reached 729 million tons, marking a 5.7 percent year-on-year increase.

To meet the electricity coal supply task, Ordos is accelerating the release of high-quality coal production capacity and actively facilitating approval procedures for increasing the capacity of eligible coal mines.

Currently, 87 mines have received approval for capacity expansion, with an additional capacity exceeding 150 million tons per year.

By the end of October, over 230 operational coal mines, 100 coal washing plants, and 74 container stations in the city had been integrated into the smart energy service platform.

The selected coal is transported to various parts of the country via heavy trucks. [Photo/Ejin Horoo Banner Integrated Media Center]