Construction of a new photovoltaic module project with 20 gigawatts capacity and the second phase of 40 gW monocrystalline silicon production plant – both being funded by Shuangliang Silicon Materials (Baotou) Co – started in the Baotou Rare Earth High-tech Industrial Development Zone on April 6.

Meng Fanli, secretary of the municipal Party committee, Miao Yuliang, secretary of the Party working committee of the zone and officials from relevant municipal departments attended the groundbreaking ceremony. It took place in the zone, located in Baotou city in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

Total investment in the 20 gW solar power plant is projected to be 5 billion yuan ($785.83 million). After completion and output is ramped up, it is expected to generate annual operating income of 30 billion yuan and tax revenue of 1 billion yuan and employ some 3,000 people.

The 40 gW monocrystalline silicon plant will cost 6.2 billion yuan. When it starts production, it is forecast to realize annual operating income of 12.6 billion yuan and tax revenue of 770 million yuan, employing 2,500 people.

The projects are seen as being of great significance to extending and expanding the solar power supply chain in the city, as well as creating a new energy industry cluster.

After the ceremony, the zone's Meng learned about the construction of the key projects and put forward suggestions to various departments.