H.E President Halla Tómasdóttir of Iceland and President Xi Jinping reaffirmed their commitment to advancing geothermal cooperation this week, stating the renewable source is a cornerstone of future partnership.
During her state visit, President Tómasdóttir met with Haukur Hardarson, Founder and Chairman of Arctic Green Energy, and Hon Qijun, Chairman of Sinopec Group. The meeting celebrated two decades of successful collaboration and explored new opportunities for future cooperation.
The joint venture between the two companies – Sinopec Green Energy (SGE) – has been key in transforming geothermal energy into one of China’s most significant green energy success stories.
Over nearly 20 years, SGE has become one of the world’s largest geothermal heating and cooling company. The partnership has already reduced CO2 emissions by more than 25 million tons, serves millions of people in China and holds more than 250 industry-leading patents.
Reflecting on the visit, Hardarson said, “The state visit and joint statement mark a defining moment in the journey of Sino-Icelandic cooperation on geothermal energy. [They are] a recognition not only of what we have already achieved together, but also of the enormous potential that still lies ahead.
“As we approach the 20th anniversary of our collaboration, we look to the future with great optimism. Together with our partners at Sinopec and the continued support of both governments, we are ready to expand our reach, deepen our innovation, and strengthen our leadership in the global green energy transition.”