A Solar Farm in China Takes the Form of a Panda

Known for its beloved pandas and notorious pollution, China has combined its national symbol with eco-friendly innovation. According to Business Insider, a solar energy company has launched a unique power plant shaped like a panda in Datong, aiming to honor the iconic animal while addressing environmental challenges.

China Merchants New Energy Group (CMNE) collaborated with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to design the 248-acre solar farm, constructed by Panda Green Energy Group, a global leader in eco-development solutions partially owned by CMNE. This massive solar-panel panda marks just the initial phase of the Panda Power Plant's development.

Currently, the facility houses a 50-megawatt plant. Later in 2017, CMNE aims to build a second panda-shaped solar installation. Once fully operational, the Panda Power Plant will span 1500 acres and generate 100 megawatts of power. Over the next 25 years, CMNE estimates the plant will produce 3.2 billion kilowatt-hours of solar energy, cutting coal reliance and carbon emissions by 2.74 million tons.

The panda's distinctive black-and-white appearance is achieved using two solar panel types: white thin-film photovoltaic (PV) cells and black monocrystalline silicon PV cells, as reported by Mashable. This playful design aims to engage and educate younger generations about the importance of renewable energy.

“By shaping the plant like a panda, we hope to spark curiosity and enthusiasm among young people about the potential of solar energy,” stated Li Yuan, CEO of Panda Green Energy, in May 2016.

The company aims to engage Chinese youth through summer camps at the Panda Power Plant, where they can explore green energy. Additionally, Panda Green Energy intends to build panda-themed stations in Fiji and the Philippines, with an ambitious plan to establish 100 such plants globally within five years.

“These panda solar plants are set to become major tourist attractions, and we plan to expand their presence worldwide in the coming years,” Yuan added.