Core Viewpoint - The China General Nuclear Power Group's Yantai Zhaoyuan 400 MW offshore photovoltaic project has successfully achieved full-capacity grid-connected power generation, marking a significant milestone in China's offshore solar energy development [3][4][6]. Project Overview - The project consists of 760,000 offshore photovoltaic modules and has a total sea area of 512.7 hectares, which is 25 times the area of the National Stadium (Bird's Nest) [4][5]. - It is the first fully grid-connected pile foundation offshore photovoltaic project in China, utilizing domestically developed bifacial double-glass photovoltaic modules [3][4]. Energy Production and Environmental Impact - The project is expected to generate an average annual power output of 694 million kWh, sufficient to meet the electricity needs of approximately 400,000 households [4][5]. - The annual power generation can reduce coal consumption by about 208,700 tons and cut carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 535,800 tons, equivalent to afforestation of 1,562 hectares [5]. Technical Innovations - The project employs a nearshore pile foundation structure, which is more resilient to typhoons and ocean currents compared to floating structures, making it suitable for complex marine environments [5][6]. - It has developed innovative technologies, including a large-span bolt-ball steel grid and spiral tapered steel pipe piles, enhancing the stability and load-bearing capacity of the photovoltaic support structures [12][13]. Construction Challenges and Solutions - The project faced significant construction challenges due to deep water conditions (8.5 to 11 meters) and harsh marine environments, including high winds and tidal influences [11][15]. - To address these challenges, the project team implemented a construction method that combines land assembly and offshore installation, significantly improving efficiency and safety [16]. Industry Implications - The successful implementation of this project contributes to the establishment of a complete set of construction processes for offshore photovoltaic projects, which can be replicated in similar future projects [16][17]. - The project aligns with China's dual carbon goals and is expected to drive the development of offshore photovoltaic energy as a key component of the energy transition in coastal provinces [9][20].
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