Pinglu Canal project achieves new milestones

The Pinglu Canal project has made significant progress, with two key structures recently completed, local media outlets reported on May 6.

On May 4, the Qingnian Hub Power Station passed grid-connection tests and is now ready for operation. Equipped with two 1.6MW vertical shaft bulb units, the station will generate 13GWh of clean electricity annually - enough to power the canal's pumping stations and lighting systems while cutting 11,700 tons of CO₂ emissions. Its eco-friendly design includes dedicated fish passages to protect aquatic biodiversity.

Meanwhile, the Qinzhou Comprehensive Water Service Area's gravity wharf - the largest in Guangxi - topped out on April 30 after eight months of construction. The 142,200-square-meter facility features advanced berthing infrastructure, including five 5,000-metric-ton emergency docks and refueling stations.

It will provide ships with navigation management, emergency support, and supply services.

These developments mark crucial steps toward the canal's 2026 opening, enhancing regional water transport while aligning with carbon neutrality goals.

The construction site of the Pinglu Canal project. [Photo by Zhou Jun/Guangxi Daily]