Shinan accelerates energy innovation through digital technologies and industrial clustering. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

From a 1980s oilfield sanatorium to a modern hub of innovation, Shinan district in Qingdao is rapidly transforming the energy sector. With energy as the "lifeblood of industry" and a strategic focus in China's 2026 National Energy Work Conference, the district is now pushing both traditional and green energy into a new era.

At the heart of this shift is the Energy Technology Industrial Park, where nearly 20 leading enterprises — including Sinopec Jingwei, Shengli Oilfield Research Center, and CNPC Geotechnical Engineering — now collaborate across research, engineering, and equipment development. The park integrates advanced digital solutions: engineers can monitor thousands of kilometers of oilfields remotely, and proprietary software systems are breaking international monopolies and streamlining drilling, surveying, and geotechnical operations.

The district is also focusing on green energy, with companies like Qingdao Sunas Intelligent Technology leading the digital upgrade of wind and solar projects. By linking traditional oil and gas expertise with renewable innovation, Shinan is fostering an ecosystem where anchor enterprises guide the growth of smaller partners, creating a thriving industry cluster.

Beyond technology, the district is building a support system that spans talent training, project incubation, and international collaboration ensuring its energy sector not only grows locally but competes globally. With a clear focus on digitalization, sustainability, and high-quality development, Shinan district is setting the pace for the next generation of energy innovation.