美国紧盯动向！中国沙漠藏着地下海洋，巨量能源让西方垂涎不已

Core Insights - The discovery of a vast underground ocean in the Tarim Basin, which is a remnant of an ancient ocean from 400 million years ago, has significant implications for energy resources and water supply in China [1][2][4]. Resource Discovery - A 10,500-meter deep well drilled by China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) unexpectedly revealed the existence of this underground ocean, which is now seen as a natural resource map aiding in the identification of oil and gas reserves [2][4]. - The high-pressure brine system associated with this underground ocean has led to the successful exploration of major oil fields, such as the Fuman Oilfield and the Bozi Dabeiqi Gas Field, which have billion-ton oil and gas reserves [2][4]. Water Supply and Sustainability - The underground ocean is continuously replenished by approximately 22 billion tons of water annually from the Tibetan Plateau, ensuring its active state and potential for sustainable resource development [5]. - This resource is not only vital for energy but also plays a crucial role in transforming arid regions into productive agricultural land, with plans to add 10 million acres of arable land in the future [11][13]. Geothermal and Lithium Resources - The geothermal resources in the Tarim Basin, with temperatures exceeding 180°C, could provide substantial clean energy, equivalent to 50 large coal-fired power plants if just 1% of the total heat is utilized [10]. - The basin also contains significant lithium resources, with an estimated 3.5 million tons of lithium equivalent in deep brine, which could position China as a leader in the global lithium market [11]. Ecological Impact - The development of these resources has led to ecological restoration, with improved water levels in the Tarim River and surrounding areas, resulting in increased biodiversity and reduced desertification [13][14]. - The approach of integrating resource extraction with ecological restoration exemplifies a sustainable development model that balances resource utilization with environmental protection [14][16].