https://j.people.com.cn/n3/2026/1110/c95952-20517354.html

The first unit of a “zero-carbon” solar and thermal energy storage demonstration project—developed by China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) in the Ngari Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region—was connected to the power grid and began generating electricity. As the world’s highest-altitude grid-connected solar-thermal power plant, it will further enhance the stability of clean energy supplies in the Ngari region.

Located in Gar County, Ngari Prefecture, Tibet, the project sits at an average altitude of 4,300 meters and has a total installed capacity of 150,000 kilowatts (kW). It consists of a 100,000 kW photovoltaic (PV) power plant and a 50,000 kW solar-thermal power plant. Unlike conventional solar power generation, this solar-thermal facility converts electricity generated by the PV system during the day into thermal energy for storage. This stored heat is then released to generate electricity at night or during periods of insufficient sunlight, enabling continuous, round-the-clock power supply.

During its construction, the project created jobs for over 500 local farmers and herders. Once fully completed and operational, it is expected to generate approximately 270 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 168,200 tons per year. This will support both the stability of energy supplies and the transition toward green, low-carbon development in the Ngari region.