At present, it has become a global consensus to address climate change and promote green, low-carbon and sustainable development. China's machinery and electronic foreign economic and trade industry has made excellent achievements in green, low-carbon and sustainable development. In order to summarize the experience of the industry, CCCME collected green development cases from its member enterprises, and together with Deloitte China, prepared the Report on Sustainable Development of China's Machinery and Electronic Foreign Economic and Trade and Collection of Cases on Green Development of CCCME Members.

 

The report analyzes the significance of the sustainable development of the machinery and electronic foreign economic and trade industry, and summarizes the excellent enterprise cases in five aspects: Contribution to International Cooperation for Sustainable Development, Innovation in Green Products and Services, Green and Low-carbon Transition of Enterprises, Building Responsible Supply Chains, and Fulfillment of Social Responsibilities. In this article, we will share the cases of member enterprises contributing to international cooperation for sustainable development.

 

 

Stepping up international cooperation is necessary for the solution to global issues of sustainable development. Global issues such as climate change, resource shortage, and ecological damage require the joint efforts of all countries. International cooperation for sustainable development enables relevant countries to share resources and development opportunities, fuelling international investment and trade and pushing forward sustained and sound economic development. Governments are formulating strategies for sustainable development to facilitate the balance among economic, environmental, and social development. Meanwhile, international organizations are also actively contributing to international cooperation for sustainable development. The European Commission released the Sustainable Europe Investment Plan in January 2020, which is aimed at driving the cooperation and development of sustainable finance and the formulation of policies related to sustainable investment and green finance to facilitate the achievement of the SDGs in Europe. In April 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released the Strategy to Secure the Clean Energy Transition, which proposes 62 actions, including the promotion of building a diversified and reliable foreign supply chain, the achievement of the global climate goals, and the increase in the use and deployment of clean energy, among others.

 

China has been actively contributing to global cooperation for sustainable development. From a global perspective, China has put forward new ideas and initiatives, such as the building of a human community with a shared future and the high-quality development of the BRI, and proposed our own solutions and contributed our wisdom to the resolution of global development issues and the facilitation of putting the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development into practice. During the high-quality development of the BRI, China has upheld the principle of achieving shared growth through discussion and collaboration and the ideology of openness, greenness, and integrity, achieving remarkable results. As of July 2023, more than three-fourths of the world's countries and over 30 international organizations have signed relevant cooperation documents. The facilities have been continuously connected and enhanced, shaping the integration of the connectivity of six corridors, six routes, and multiple countries and ports, achieving the enhancement of unimpeded trade. The report on the Economics of the Belt and Road Initiative issued by the World Bank concluded that the comprehensive implementation of the initiative is projected to increase trade exchanges among participating countries by 4.1%; with the increase of financial integration, many financial institutions including the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Silk Road Fund have been founded, and have funded hundreds of projects.

 

With the progressive deepening of international cooperation on sustainable development, domestic and international policies have put forward prospects and guidelines for the building of green trade, the development of green and low-carbon trade cooperation, and the deepening of collaboration on energy conservation, environmental protection, clean energy, and other areas of technology, equipment, and services. The machinery and electronic industry has actively answered the call of national policies, following the trend of international sustainable development and driving relevant international cooperation.

 

 

POWERCHINA: Achieving Technological Breakthroughs and Innovations to Assist Morocco in Clean Energy Transformation

The Noor III Tower-Type Solar-Thermal Power Plant Project is situated in the Noor-Ouarzazate Complex in Ouarzazate, southeastern Morocco. It stands as a major undertaking of the BRI, and the first overseas solar thermal project contracted by Chinese companies. The project is located in the Noor-Ouarzazate Complex in the Draa-Tafilalet region of central Morocco, boasting a total installed capacity of 580 MW and covering more than 2,000 hectares. The EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) project is contracted by joint venture of SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Co., Ltd., affiliated to POWERCHINA, and Sener. With an installed capacity of 150 MW, the plant adopts tower-type concentrated solar thermal power generation technology, deploying 7,400 giant heliostats to track the sun intermittently. It reflects sunlight to the high-efficient heat sink on the top of the light tower, to gather heat and generate power. After sunset, the giant molten salt thermal storage tank in the power station can ensure it generates electricity at full capacity for 7 hours.

 

The project is not only the world's largest tower-type solar-thermal power station in terms of individual capacity, but its 248-meter-high solar tower and single heliostat with an area of 178 square meters also hold world records. Annually, the project contributes 530 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy to the Moroccan grid, significantly alleviating the country's energy constraints. Besides supplying clean energy to over one million Moroccan households, the project exports surplus electricity to Europe, laying a solid foundation for Morocco's energy self-sufficiency and independent development, thus fundamentally transforming the long-standing reliance on imported electricity in Morocco. Simultaneously, the power station reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 230,000 tons annually, providing robust support for Morocco's green and sustainable development and ecological environmental protection.

 

The solar-thermal power station

 

The project has demonstrated exceptional safety, efficiency, quality, compliance with advanced standards, environmental protection, and remarkable economic benefits. It has received a total of 92 awards above the provincial and ministerial levels in various categories in China. Recognized by the solar thermal industry with the "Contribution to Solar Thermal Globalization Award" and "Overseas Energy Innovation Breakthrough Award," the project has also been honored with the "Five-Star Safety Award", "Five-Star Quality Award", "Social Contribution Award", and "Economy and Employment Promotion Award" in Morocco. It stands as an exemplary project showcasing friendly cooperation between China and Morocco and has been included in the "Great Changes – Exhibition of Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Reform and Opening-up".

 

 

Goldwind: Enhancing Technological Competence on Multiple Fronts, Collaborating with Pakistan for Joint Development

Pakistan is a crucial country along the Belt and Road, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands as the flagship project of BRI. For the Goldwind Jhimpir Wind Power Project Clusters, five out of nine projects are the outcomes of collaboration under CPEC. The turbines in the project clusters utilize Goldwind's independently developed direct-drive permanent magnet technology, known for its high reliability, superior power generation performance, and low operational and maintenance costs. In response to Pakistan's high-temperature and dust-prone environmental conditions, Goldwind has customized wind turbine products that can adapt to the harsh environment with high temperature, sand, and dust.

 

The Jhimpir project clusters have now entered the operational phase, providing over 200 stable job opportunities for the local community. Additionally, to fully leverage local talent resources and increase employment, Goldwind strategically established a talent training base in Pakistan, and proactively arranged excellent talents to work in third countries. Over ten Pakistani employees have been dispatched to participate in Goldwind's various overseas projects in countries such as Türkiye, the UAE, Sri Lanka, and Egypt. The successful implementation of these overseas projects has served as a testament to the robust capabilities of the talent training base in Pakistan.

 

In December 2022, Goldwind Pakistan Solution Factory was successfully launched to enhance the efficient training of local talents and meet the evolving needs of the industry. Located in the Korangi Creek Industrial Park, the factory serves as a comprehensive service center integrating wind turbine professional training, wind power digital operation and maintenance, equipment maintenance testing, and spare parts storage. The establishment of the Solution Factory has garnered attention and praise from various sectors of the industry, significantly boosting Goldwind's reputation and brand image in the Pakistani market. The Solution Factory is expected to advance local talent development and the operational model of wind power projects in the region to the next level.

 

Local Personnel Training in Pakistan

 

Since Goldwind initiated its new energy business in Pakistan, it has proactively integrated into the overall economic and social development, actively seeking cooperation with local businesses. Currently, there are 53 local suppliers engaged in business cooperation, with a total transaction volume of approximately PKR 5 billion (equivalent to RMB 125 million yuan).

 

The Goldwind Jhimpir project clusters not only provide clean energy for Pakistan, facilitate the country's energy transition, but also offer robust support for Pakistan's technological development and talent cultivation through the establishment of a talent training base and a solution factory. These efforts contribute to the enhancement of local technological capabilities and foster sustainable economic and social development in the region.

 

 

CAMCE: Driving Sustainable Development, Promoting Pokhara's Connectivity with the World

Since the initiation of Chinese government assistance to Nepal, the Pokhara International Airport stands as the largest project to date and is a crucial component in building Trans-Himalayan Multi-dimensional Connectivity Network. This project is undertaken by China CAMC Engineering Co., Ltd. (CAMCE), a subsidiary of China National Machinery Industry Corporation (Sinomach). The airport project follows the Chinese standard and the standard set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to construct a 4D-Categoryinternational airport. The airport has a 2,500 meters long runway, and an approximately 15,000-square-meter terminal building. It is equipped with communication, navigation, -meteorological, –surveillance systems, and other essential facilities, enabling it to handle the landing and takeoff of aircrafts such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 757.

 

Aerial View of Pokhara International Airport in Nepal

 

During the project construction process, a series of measures were implemented by the project department to protect the local ecological environment. These measures included but not limited to striving for a balance in -excavation and back-filling operations within the site to minimize the environmental impact of borrowed soil on the surrounding area. Additionally, a significant amount of large rock excavated from the site was blasted and crushed and utilized for constructing drainage ditches andground beam of foundation , demonstrating a sustainable approach to the utilization of natural resources. To safeguard the biodiversity of the local area, efforts were made to reasonably avoid the habitats of wild animals. Furthermore, extensive planting of grass and landscape in the project's landside area and public areas was carried out, creating a beautiful environment.

 

CAMCE has consistently placed a high priority on localization, providing employment opportunities for the locals. The project management team comprises local professionals across various fields in Nepal, including engineering, business, finance, and administration, improving the communication efficiency with the client of the projectand relevant institutions. Adhering to the principles of localization, during peak periods, more than 30 local engineers and over 1,000 local labors were employed. In alignment with local customs and traditions, the project department established a training system tailored to the Nepalese context. For local employees in different positions, the project conducted phased and batched training programs covering quality, safety, health, environmental protection, and occupational skills. With the mentoring, the project cultivated a group of professional engineers and skilled workers who understand Chinese culture, standards, and construction techniques, and elevated the local workforce's professional skill levels. Furthermore, the project department established a monthly meeting system for communication with local employees. During these meetings, representatives of local employees provided feedback on various aspects, including daily work and life, thoughts, labor protection, and compensation and benefits. Reasonable suggestions were also promptly adopted and implemented.

 

On January 1, 2023, Pokhara International Airport held a grand inauguration ceremony, officially commencing commercial operations. The operation of the airport will further facilitate connectivity between Pokhara and the world, enhance local aviation capabilities, and effectively boost Nepal's tourism industry and economic and social development.

 

 

CGGC: Promoting the high-quality development of the BRI, Alleviating Pakistan's Power Shortage with Green Energy

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), one of the six major corridors under the BRI, has played a significant role in promoting economic and social development in Pakistan through multifaceted cooperation between the two countries. It has further strengthened the all-weather strategic partnership between China and Pakistan, providing crucial opportunities for Pakistan's development. The China Gezhouba Group Co., Ltd. (CGGC) and United Energy Pakistan (UEP) JHIMPIR (99 WM) Wind Power Phase I Project is a priority implementation project of CPEC. Located in JHIMPIR region of Sindh Province, northeast to Karachi, the hub of southern Pakistan, about 110 km from Karachi, and about 120 km from Port Qasim, the project benefits from abundant wind resources.

 

CGGC serves as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor for the project, providing a comprehensive "financing, design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and operation" solution. The project situated in a high-temperature desert region, presents challenging conditions such as dryness, aridity, high temperatures, and significant temperature variations, which pose a great challenge for the construction of large-volume concrete structures like wind turbine foundations. The project team places a strong emphasis on and encourages technological innovation. Technical experts take the lead in overcoming difficulties, resulting in a multitude of technological achievements such as "Cyclic Structure Wind Turbine Communication Technology", "Large Volume Concrete Construction Technology", and "Intelligent Reactive Power Compensation System". The successful implementation of the project has made a new contribution to the global dissemination of Chinese technology, standards, and equipment. The project prioritizes localized management, employing a total of 1,018 local staff, with over 500 local employees during peak periods, accounting for over 70% of the total project workforce. The project also provides technical training, effectively alleviating local employment pressures and enhancing the operational skills of local workers. Additionally, the project has established a localized talent certification system, dynamically managing local employees at different levels, enhancing the efficiency of recruiting and managing local Pakistani staff, facilitating talent recommendation, training, and advancement and making a significant contribution to local sustainable development.

 

Panoramic View of Pakistan Wind Power Project

 

The project officially passed acceptance on July 31, 2017, entering the commercial operational phase. It contributes 260 million kilowatt-hours of green energy annually to the Pakistan power grid, effectively alleviating the country's power shortage. Simultaneously, it mitigates the high carbon emissions associated with traditional energy, supporting local economic development and aligning with the United Nations' Global Sustainable Development Goals.

 

 

SEPCOIII: Highlighting Green and Low-carbon Development, Benefiting People Through Low-carbon Measures

Since the inception of the BRI, SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Co., Ltd. (SEPCOIII) has actively responded to the government's call. Besides, SEPCOIII has been undertaking green and low-carbon projects involving the PV industry, solar-thermal industry, seawater desalination, energy storage, etc. in BRI countries, thereby empowering and enhancing high-quality development, achieving unity in ecological protection, green development, and improvement of people's livelihood, as well as promoting the brand image.

 

SEPCOIII has completed multiple projects of PV power station in such countries as Bahrain, Jordan, Uzbekistan, and Myanmar. Among them, the Navoi 100 MW PV Power Station Project undertaken by SEPCOIII is the first PV project launched after the implementation of Uzbekistan's new energy reform policy. The implementation of the project has played a positive role in promoting the transition to green development in Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, relying on the solar-thermal power stations built in BRI countries, SEPCOIII has established solar-thermal research centers and postdoctoral workstation, and built domestic and overseas R&D teams to conduct in-depth research on solar-thermal technologies and master core technologies. In this way, SEPCOIII provides opportunities and conditions for the construction of solar-thermal power generation worldwide and the joint R&D of green solar-thermal power generation technologies and their applications.

 

To alleviate the insufficient supply of fresh water in Saudi Arabia, SEPCOIII has successively developed and built five seawater desalination projects, including Saudi Arabia Rabigh Phase III, Saudi Arabia Jubail Phase II, Saudi Arabia Jubail 3A, and Abu Dhabi Taweelah. Seawater desalination and infrastructure projects, which are critical for people's livelihood, have maximized the comprehensive social, economic, and ecological benefits with higher requirements.

 

Panoramic View of SEPCOIII's Seawater Desalination Project

 

The Saudi Arabia Red Sea Public Utility Infrastructure Project started in an all-round way is a key project Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. It is the first time for Saudi Arabia to build pulic utilities in the PPP mode, and the project is the first large-scale infrastructure-type complex project undertaken by a Chinese enterprise in Saudi Arabia. Among others, the Red Sea New City Energy Storage Project included in this project is the world's largest battery storage facility, with up to 1,300MWh of power storage capacity. It can be applied to the entire renewable energy power supply for the Red Sea tourism region, realizing complete clean energy off-grid power supply.

 

During the implementation of the project, through localized subcontracting, SEPCOIII provided local employment opportunities on the one hand, and helped local people accumulate green project construction experience on the other hand. Meanwhile, SEPCOIII actively promoted the localization of its management team, formulated special talent training plans, and further improved the overall quality and comprehensive capacity of local workforce through centralized training, mentorship, on-site practice, etc. These measures assisted SEPCOIII in cultivating a number of skillful and managerial talents for the construction of local green projects.

 

 

CITIC Construction: Promoting International Cooperation in Production Capacity, Assisting the Construction of the Belarusian Agro-industrial Complex

Agriculture has always been a significant of the Belarusian economy, with the agricultural land accounting for more than 40% of the country's land area. Therefore, the Belarusian government attaches great importance to its agricultural development and seeks opportunities to promote the development of the grain deep processing industry. CITIC Construction Co., Ltd. (CITIC Construction) designed and built the Belarusian Agro-industrial Complex Project based on the inherent advantage of low prices of local grain and energy, providing Belarus with well-developed biofermentation technologies and equipment. During the implementation of the project, CITIC Construction strictly controlled quality and schedule, to achieve win-win results between the general contractor and owners of the host country owners. It is a benchmark project that promotes the high-quality development of the BRI and the all-round "going global".

 

Panoramic View of the Belarusian Agro-industrial Complex Project

 

In the design and implementation stages of the project, CITIC Construction started from "energy conservation" and "emission reduction". Through the advanced equipment and technology applications related to process optimization and reduction of wastewater and waste discharge, CITIC Construction aligned with concepts of sustainable development and carbon neutrality to build a full-cycle industrial chain for the whole project. During the implementation of the project, CITIC Construction positively employed local staff to participate in the project, whose number exceeded 800 during the peak period, thus providing lots of employment opportunities for local people. Moreover, CITIC Construction made efforts to open up local procurement channels and resources, with construction machinery and bulk building materials basically sourced from local markets. These measures enhanced the engagement and influence of local economic factors. The completion of the Belarusian Agro-industrial Complex Project can enhance the technical level of Belarus, drive the rapid development of its agricultural and breeding industries, solve the import substitution of amino acid products, and facilitate the products to be exported to the EU and CIS countries, thereby achieving foreign exchange earnings.

 

The Belarusian Agro-industrial Complex Project has been officially put into operation. CCTIC Construction thus received the "Outstanding Contribution Award for Economic and Trade Cooperation on the 30th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations Between China and Belarus".