SPIC unveils US$6bn hydrogen scheme involving 3.5 GW of wind in northern China

China's State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) has revealed a substantial CNY42 billion (US$5.85 billion) investment initiative in northeast China, focusing on generating fuel from hydrogen derived from a planned 3.5 GW wind power plant. This comprehensive project, situated near Qiqihar in Heilongjiang Province, encompasses a 164,000 metric tons per year hydrogen production facility. Anticipated outcomes include the capability to manufacture 400,000 metric tons per year each of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and methanol.

Projected to commence production potentially by 2025, though an official timeline remains pending, the venture marks a significant step toward harnessing renewable energy for fuel production. In its initial phase, SPIC intends to establish a 10,000 metric tons per year SAF pilot plant, utilizing hydrogen derived from wind sources, with plans for expansion to 400,000 metric tons per year around 2030.

SPIC, boasting the most extensive renewable resources among China's state utilities, currently oversees 160 GW of installed clean power capacity. This initiative aligns with China's broader energy goals, as outlined in the 2022 Medium and Long-Term Plan for the Development of Hydrogen Energy Industry by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). The plan targets a production range of 100-200,000 metric tons per year of green hydrogen, with the overarching aim of establishing a mature hydrogen industry in the country by 2035.