The Guangdong Olympic Sports Center in Tianhe district, Guangzhou – the largest sports complex in South China – has recently finished a significant green energy upgrade with the official launch of its photovoltaic system, in readiness for the upcoming 15th National Games.

Since its founding, the Guangdong Olympic Sports Center has hosted major events, including the 2001 National Games and the 2010 Asian Games.

The recent renovation followed the principles of "simplicity, safety, and excellence", focusing on both during-event and post-event use. Upgrades were implemented in the main stadium, swimming and diving centers, outdoor areas, smart venues, and night lighting. Furthermore, a new event operations command center was built to improve and modernize the existing facilities.

Guangdong Olympic Sports Center. [Photo/WeChat account: tianhefabu]

The upgrade project features a design that integrates photovoltaic systems, sun shelters, and greenery by adding sunshade eaves, solar panels, and green vines, creating an eco-friendly corridor that promotes energy conservation.

The design not only optimizes photovoltaic efficiency but also enhances the energy-saving performance of the roofing, positioning the main venue as a "zero-carbon demonstration venue".

Guangzhou Southern Investment Group, a subsidiary of Guangzhou Urban Investment Group responsible for the project, states that the photovoltaic system will produce more than 420,000 kilowatt-hours annually and cut carbon emissions by over 350 metric tons each year, which is comparable to planting over 20,000 trees. All the electricity generated will be used to meet the venue's energy demands, ensuring a 100 percent green power supply for the venue.