In a major leap for sustainable energy, a record-breaking geothermal well has been drilled in eastern China’s Yellow River Delta region, promising to supercharge the area’s green transition. 🌍 This milestone, announced on January 9, 2026, by the Shandong Provincial Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, could reshape how communities power homes, industries, and agriculture.
🔥 By the Numbers
The well’s 162°C bottom temperature and 138°C wellhead water temperature set a new regional record. According to Zhang Yunfeng of the Shandong Geo-mineral Institute, it generates enough stable thermal power (21.57 MW) to produce 25,200 kWh daily – enough electricity for ~10,000 households! 💡
♻️ Beyond Power: Steam, Heat & Farms
- ⚙️ Annual industrial steam supply: 94,000 tonnes (replacing 18,800 tonnes of coal)
- 🏡 Post-use warm water could heat homes across 2M sq.m. of residential areas
- 🌱 Residual heat at 60°C? Perfect for smart greenhouses or fish farms!
Why It Matters
Geothermal energy is China’s quiet climate hero – stable, low-carbon, and abundant. With the Chinese mainland already leading in direct geothermal use globally, this project could inspire similar innovations worldwide. As Zhang says: "We’re expanding applications to boost both public well-being and sustainable growth." 🌏✨
Reference(s):
Geothermal drilling breakthrough in east China boosts green transition
cgtn.com







