Imagine sipping a cup of coffee while your car charges effortlessly, powered entirely by green energy. By the time you’ve savored the last drop, your vehicle is ready for the next leg of your journey. This isn’t a futuristic dream—it’s the reality at the Jinan East and Kunlun service areas in east China’s Shandong Province.
Green Energy Revolution on the Road
Wang Jian, deputy general manager at Shandong High Speed Energy Development, explains how these service areas are pioneering eco-friendly travel. They’ve installed 120 kW DC charging piles equipped with DC-DC modules, allowing new energy vehicles to tap directly into pure green energy. Photovoltaic power flows straight into the charging stations, and energy storage batteries step in when needed, guaranteeing a 100% green charging experience.
Each charging pile features advanced detection systems that inspect batteries during the charging process. Afterward, drivers can download detailed inspection reports, enhancing both service capacity and safety. It’s like having a personal health check-up for your car, ensuring you hit the road with confidence.
A Global Perspective on Sustainability
“They implemented a system that defines ‘ZERO’ in terms of zero emissions as an equation: Z equals emissions minus reductions minus offsets. This approach is quite comprehensive,” said Gisela Cernadas, an economist from Argentina visiting the Jinan East Service Area.
During the Labor Day holiday this year, Jinan East welcomed an average of 36,000 passengers and 11,000 vehicles daily. The area’s cutting-edge solar power storage and charging monitor system handled the increased traffic with ease.
Kunlun Service Area: Where Culture Meets Innovation
A 50-minute drive away lies the newly inaugurated Kunlun Service Area, blending diversity with sustainability. Opened in September 2023, it incorporates various architectural elements to enhance the journey for travelers. The region embodies the spirit of the Belt and Road Initiative by highlighting themes that symbolize diverse cultures, with Kunlun featuring a West European design.
“The service area feels like a resort park,” said Iegor Shyshov, a multilingual host and international influencer who has visited Shandong several times. “It’s fully green, combining practicality and beauty. People can enjoy their time there while using high technology.”
According to Li Xingyuan, general manager at Shandong High Speed Energy Development, “The solar power system at Kunlun, with a capacity of 492 kW, showcases how infrastructure can produce energy while helping prevent landslides, benefiting both the environment and the area’s energy demands.”
During the Labor Day holiday, Kunlun prepared for an average daily traffic flow of 13,400 vehicles and 40,900 passengers, totaling over 200,000 visitors. If charging spaces are in short supply, users can navigate to the nearest service area or toll station using a convenient mini-program.
Smart Solutions for a Sustainable Future
“They have robots that clean solar panels automatically,” Shyshov noted. “It’s self-cleaning and energy-efficient.” For international travelers, the service areas provide English signage for important information and main facilities.
The energy storage systems can provide power for up to 30 hours, automatically switching to grid power when necessary, ensuring a consistent energy flow even in harsh conditions.
“China thinks comprehensively: solving energy issues while generating employment, benefiting communities, and protecting the environment,” Cernadas said. She highlighted projects like Argentina’s 300 MW Cauchari solar plant, built with Chinese investment, as examples of the potential for global cooperation. “I hope China’s model can be adopted in more countries.”
Driving Into a Greener Tomorrow
In Shandong, eco-friendly service zones shine as beacons of innovation. Solar panels absorb sunlight, powering journeys with sustainable energy, while smart technology creates seamless experiences. Here, travel isn’t just a break—it’s a glimpse into tomorrow’s world.
