Sinopec powers up China’s first helium-integrated geothermal project in Xianyang

Beijing-headquartered Sinopec Star Co Ltd, the clean energy arm of China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec), has received a grid access permit for its medium and deep geothermal power generation pilot project in Xianyang, Shaanxi Province, which is now officially connected to the grid. This milestone marks China’s first thermoelectric helium-integrated pilot, advancing geothermal resource utilization and enhancing the nation’s energy mix.

Located in the high-temperature, high-quality geothermal field of Xianyang, the project draws from a 3,000-meter-deep well with a water temperature of 102°C. During heating season, it supplies warmth to 120,000 square meters while extracting helium for low-load power; in non-heating seasons, it generates power continuously, producing 700,000 kWh annually.

This project tackles core technology for helium extraction, a strategic material for aerospace, healthcare, and industry. Sinopec has achieved a 99.99% pure helium yield from geothermal wells using advanced separation techniques. This pilot paves the way for industrial-scale production of geothermal-sourced helium, addressing China’s helium import reliance.

Sinopec, a leader in geothermal development, has established heating capacity across 72 Chinese cities, including the globally recognized Xiong’an New Area project.