The Gonghe solar power plant in China’s Qinghai province has reached a significant milestone with the successful completion of the heliostat field assembly. Situated at an altitude of 2870 meters, the plant features 10,310 Stellio heliostats, which form a vast solar field that reflects and concentrates sunlight onto a receiver atop a 200-meter-high concrete tower. This marks the third commercial solar tower project in China utilizing sbp’s Stellio heliostat technology.
The Gonghe project is part of the Qinghai Hainan Eco-Solar Power Park, with a total capacity of 1000MW—comprising 900MW from a large photovoltaic installation and 100MW from the CSP plant. Using molten salt tower technology, the CSP system provides 100MW of electrical power and includes an 8-hour thermal storage capacity, enhancing grid stability and the reliability of renewable energy supply.
Construction began in spring 2024, and by November, the heliostat field was fully assembled, while the tower had reached a height of 80 meters. Due to severe winter conditions, construction has been temporarily paused, with work set to resume in March. According to the project schedule, the tower will reach its full height by June, followed by the installation of the receiver in August.
This achievement highlights impressive efficiency and innovation, with heliostat assembly completed 30% faster than previous projects, thanks to advanced automation and production precision. Despite challenging conditions at high altitude, the assembly workshop was constructed in just three months, keeping the project on track.
As the third collaboration between sbp Sonne and Dongfang Boiler, the project underscores a shared commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. Congratulations to everyone involved in this important step towards a cleaner, greener future!
