At 5,228 meters (17,152 feet) above sea level, phase two of the world’s highest-altitude solar plus storage project has begun generating power, setting a new benchmark for renewable energy in extreme conditions.

The Huadian Tibet Caipeng PV-Storage Project is located in Naidong District, Shannan City, Tibet, with elevations ranging from 5,046 meters (16,552 feet) to 5,228 meters (17,152 feet). It’s not just a technological feat – it’s a step forward in proving that renewable energy projects can thrive even in the harshest, most remote environments.

PowerChina’s Hydropower Bureau Ninth Engineering Division led construction, with Kunming Engineering Corporation serving as the general contractor.

Construction of the second 100 MW phase kicked off in August 2024. PowerChina finished the world’s highest-altitude solar plus storage project in 155 days, 42 days ahead of schedule, by using pre-installed mounts and on-site assembly lines.

The entire project has a hefty 150 MW capacity. It features 170,000 solar panels paired with a 20 MW/80 MWh energy storage system. The setup is designed to provide 80,000 kWh of electricity consistently for four hours after dark to help alleviate central Tibet’s winter and spring power shortages.

Phase one, situated at a slightly lower altitude at 5,100 meters (16,732 feet), came online in late 2023. It’s already generated over 60 million kWh of electricity.

PowerChina says the project is equipped with bifacial PV modules, which are up to 7.5% more efficient than standard panels. These advanced modules harness reflected sunlight from the ground, boosting overall efficiency by 20% compared to traditional single-sided solar panels.

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