In the coal-producing northeastern province of Heilongjiang lies an abundant form of brown coal known as lignite, which is low in heat but high in water content. With an expected annual output of 10 million tons, lignite reserves are estimated to last over 80 years and create more than 5 billion kilowatt-hours in power annually.

But the burning of coal and other fossil fuels is blamed in part for the greenhouse gases accelerating climate change. That's why in the town of Baoqing where the open-pit lignite mine is located, the mine's power plant uses industrial technology such as electrostatic cleaning and desulfurization devices. These ensure that the coal produced is cleaner and a more cost-efficient source of energy. And even before the mine is exhausted, authorities are looking to technology to ensure there's long-term economic benefit.