On July 14, 2025, the Board of Directors of the New Development Bank (NDB) approved a loan of RMB 1.448 billion to the People’s Republic of China for the Shanxi Taiyuan Wusu Zero-Carbon Airport Project.
The Project aims to transform Taiyuan Wusu International Airport (TWIA) into China’s first zero-carbon airport. It will significantly reduce annual net CO₂ emissions of TWIA through the adoption of solar and geothermal renewable energy sources and by enhancing its energy efficiency.
With several important ‘firsts’, it is expected that the Project will play a transformational role in airport decarbonization in China. TWIA will become the first airport in the country to install over 100 MW of solar panels, especially in the airside area, the first airport in China to pilot PEDF (PV-Energy Storage-Direct Current-Flexible Loads) systems, and as well as the first regional hub scale airport in China to achieve 100% renewable-based heating and cooling.
By supporting the Project, NDB will contribute to advancing China’s and Shanxi Province’s efforts to reach carbon peaking and neutrality goals.
In June 2024, NDB hosted “Green and Low-carbon Airport Development Workshop” in Taiyuan to facilitate the transfer of knowledge to optimize the design of the Project. The experience gained from the Project is expected to serve as a model for sustainable airport operations in member countries of the Bank.
Background Information
New Development Bank was established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging market economies and developing countries, complementing the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.