The Linfen-Hejin Pipeline, the first natural gas pipeline in Shanxi Province, was successfully ignited on September 21st, marking a historic breakthrough in the province's natural gas development and utilization. This milestone signifies the beginning of a new era for energy in Shanxi, which has long relied on coal as its primary energy source.
Given that major pipelines such as the Shanxi-Beijing and West-East Gas Pipelines pass through the region, the potential for natural gas development in Shanxi has always been strong. In September 2002, PetroChina and Shanxi Natural Gas Co., Ltd. signed a "Letter of Intent for Natural Gas Supply," covering seven prefectures across the province. This agreement laid the foundation for future natural gas distribution. In November 2004, the Shanxi Provincial Government issued the "Opinions on Strengthening Natural Gas Work in the Province," emphasizing the importance of transitioning to cleaner energy sources. By March 2005, Shanxi Natural Gas Company had already signed a gas supply contract with key industrial players, including Shanxi Huaze Aluminum Power Co., Ltd. and Chinalco Shanxi Branch.
The Lintong-Hejin Pipeline, now operational, spans 130 kilometers and can supply up to 100 million cubic meters of natural gas annually. According to the overall planning, the total length of Shanxi’s natural gas pipeline network is expected to reach 1,737 kilometers, with an annual capacity of 2 billion cubic meters. Of this, 1.2 billion will be used for industrial purposes, while 800 million will serve residential needs.
The pipeline construction is divided into three phases. Once fully completed, the project is expected to replace 10 million tons of coal per year—equivalent to the annual output of a large coal mine—and significantly reduce pollution from coal combustion by about 10 million tons. By 2020, major cities along the provincial natural gas trunk line will form a circular pipeline network, featuring interconnected gas sources that ensure stable and sufficient supply for both urban residents and industries across Shanxi. This transformation marks a significant step toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for the province.
Shandong Mingtu Precision Machinery Co., Ltd , https://www.mthoneycombs.com