The site of Yangshen-1 well. [Photo/Voice of Nantong]

In a groundbreaking development at the Yangshen-1 well in Xiaoyangkou of Rudong county in East China's Jiangsu province, a geothermal well has been drilled to a depth of 3,501.66 meters, yielding water at a scorching 108 C with a daily flow exceeding 5,360 cubic meters.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in the Jiangsu's demonstration project of efficient utilization of clean geothermal energy in key areas, setting a new record for geothermal exploration in coastal areas in Southeast China.

At the nearby hot spring exhibition center, this geothermal energy is harnessed comprehensively, showcasing a clear path of "cascade utilization" from power generation and drying to heating and wellness.

The project, which began in June 2024, utilized advanced technologies, including wide-area electromagnetic methods and microseismic detection, to accurately explore geological structures up to 5 kilometers deep.

The geothermal field spans 40 square kilometers, with a core area of 8 sq m, offering exploitable thermal energy exceeding 50 MW, comparable to a large geothermal field.

The team, led by Geological Survey of Jiangsu Province, adheres to a "cascade development and comprehensive utilization" principle, prioritizing power generation at temperatures above 100 C, thus filling a gap in the geothermal power generation in the Yangtze River Delta region.

The geothermal energy is then utilized for drying local agricultural and seafood products, heating buildings, and supporting greenhouse agriculture, significantly reducing carbon emissions.

Finally, at temperatures below 40 C, the water is used for wellness and tourism, enhancing local tourism and recreational offerings.

This initiative marks a shift from traditional hot spring tourism to a comprehensive development model, integrating power generation, heating, agriculture, and wellness, positioning Xiaoyangkou as a leader in sustainable energy utilization.