An aerial view of the newly-built desertification control–photovoltaic integrated project in Dalad Banner. [Photo/Nuan News]

Phase I of the 500-megawatt desertification control–photovoltaic integrated project in Dalad Banner, Ordos city, developed by Inner Mongolia Energy Group, was connected to the grid on Dec 31.

The project offers a replicable "Dalad model" that combines ecological restoration with clean energy development in arid and semi-arid regions.

The project is designed with a planned capacity of 500 MW and is equipped with a 220-kilovolt booster station. Electricity is transmitted via a single 220 kV line to the Gushanliang 500 kV substation, ensuring a stable supply of green power.

The project adopts an integrated approach of "power generation above panels, ecological restoration beneath, and planting between rows," coordinating solar power generation with desert control. In total, it will restore 60,000 mu (4,000 hectares) of land.

Once fully operational, it is expected to generate about 852 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, saving 257,600 metric tons of standard coal and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 1.02 million tons per year, further supporting regional energy transition and low-carbon development.