Hangzhou, the capital of China’s Zhejiang province, is making ambitious strides to create history by organizing the first-ever carbon-neutral 19th Asian Games, scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 8.
The city’s vision for the sporting event is centered around the principles of being “Green, Smart, Economical, and Ethical.” To achieve this, Hangzhou has embarked on an impressive endeavor, committing to powering all 65 venues and associated offices with green electricity from March to December this year. The scale of this initiative is exemplified by the completion of transactions for a staggering 621 million kWh of green electricity. These renewable energy sources are situated across vast distances and are efficiently transported through ultra-high voltage grids, as reported by the Chinese newspaper People’s Daily Online.
Hangzhou’s green energy for the Asian Games is harnessed from a range of photovoltaic projects located along the ancient Silk Road, including regions such as the Qaidam Basin, Jiayuguan city, and the Loess Plateau. Additionally, wind power projects in areas like Hami city contribute to the sustainable power supply. Notably, Zhejiang’s local green projects play a significant role, creating a harmonious fusion of national and ancient Silk Road renewable energies that illuminate the venues of the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games.
Remarkable efficiency is evident in the energy transmission process. A single crystal double-sided PV module situated in the Hainan Tibetan autonomous prefecture generates a substantial 2.2 kWh daily. When this energy is transmitted to Hangzhou, it has the capacity to power a light bulb at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center gymnasium—the primary venue—for an impressive 220 hours.
In addition to sustainable energy, Hangzhou is spearheading a green transportation initiative, with electric vehicles assuming a pivotal role. The State Grid Hangzhou Power Supply Company is diligently establishing charging infrastructure in key Asian Games areas. Noteworthy efforts include the development of China’s first high-power wireless charging station for new energy vehicles (NEVs), along with multiple charging points strategically placed at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. Presently, the city boasts a network of 102 charging stations and 2,024 charging piles.
The commitment to eco-friendliness and sustainability is also evident in the design of the Asian Games venues themselves. A prime example is a butterfly-shaped structure housing a natatorium and gymnasium. This innovative venue utilizes 210 light tubes to channel natural light indoors, offering an energy-efficient and environmentally conscious lighting solution that is both durable and conducive to significant electricity savings.
Moreover, the Fuyang Water Sports Center showcases an eco-engineering marvel in its roof design. Encompassing approximately 24,000 square meters, the roof is adorned with green plants such as the Carthusian pink and Chinese rose. These additions enhance the venue’s eco-friendliness while contributing to various environmental benefits.
Hangzhou’s determined efforts align seamlessly with the global drive towards sustainable sporting events, setting an exceptional precedent for the future of the Asian Games.
