Innovative approaches to combating desertification in Xinjiang

A groundbreaking "solar power and agriculture" project is transforming the southern edge of the Taklimakan Desert in Hotan, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With solar panels being installed across this vast area, this innovative initiative combines renewable energy with agriculture to rejuvenate the desert landscape. After nearly 200 days of construction, the desert is undergoing a remarkable transformation.

Wind speed is one of the most immediate changes. Due to a lack of vegetation, this region experienced severe sandstorms for five to six months each spring and summer. However, the installation of large-scale solar power plants is providing a solution. By serving as wind barriers, these solar panels significantly reduce wind speed, limiting the amount of sand carried by the wind and mitigating the impact of sandstorms on nearby communities.

In addition to reducing wind speed, the project aims to stabilize sandy soil and prevent erosion. Agricultural practices have been incorporated to ensure that plant root systems help anchor the soil.

The photovoltaic panels stand approximately 4.5 meters tall, with concrete foundation piles extending about 1.5 meters underground. Each panel is tilted at a 33-degree angle. Space was intentionally reserved for agricultural planting from the initial design phase, with ample gaps left between panel arrays and sufficient room beneath each panel for crop growth.

Agricultural experts have conducted trial plantings of more than ten crop types on the leveled desert land. After assessing water usage and economic benefits, alfalfa, a fodder crop for cattle and sheep, was determined to be the most suitable plant. Large amounts of alfalfa will be planted beneath the photovoltaic panels on this land next spring.

The project has successfully integrated power generation, increased agricultural income, and desertification control. In the future, as desertification management efforts in the Taklimakan Desert continue, the "solar power and agriculture" approach may be increasingly adopted in more areas.