A 90-megawatt solar power project has begun operation in Sanzhuang town of Rizhao, Shandong province, using the barren hilly areas to support the nation's efforts to invigorate rural areas and reduce carbon emissions.

Sunlight is abundant in the coastal city, sourcing rows of photovoltaic panels stretching over 310 hectares of barren hilly land to generate electricity.

The project, which replaces the use of coals to generate electricity, can reduce CO2 emissions substantially, according to Chu Xingtian, a project staff member.

"The vacant land under the photovoltaic panels is planted with honeysuckle, which increases the income of local farmers," said Chu.