Rows of photovoltaic panels installed over the hills provide unique scenery in Shilou county, Shanxi province. [Photo by Zheng Yunhui for chinadaily.com.cn]

Rows of photovoltaic panels installed over the hills provide unique scenery in Shilou county, Shanxi province. They also contribute to local residents' incomes.

"So far, the county has constructed photovoltaic power stations with a combined installation capacity of 86.3 megawatts, which are aimed at eliminating poverty," said Hu Yuhai, deputy chief of the rural vitalization bureau of Shilou county.

"Stations with a capacity of 56.3 megawatts were built in villages across the country. These stations can generate a total annual revenue of more than 65 million yuan ($9.12 million) for villagers," Hu said.

"That's about 500,000 yuan for each village on average and more than 6,000 yuan for each household that was once registered as impoverished."

Rows of photovoltaic panels installed over the hills provide unique scenery in Shilou county, Shanxi province. [Photo by Zheng Yunhui for chinadaily.com.cn]

In recent years, China has taken advantage of its unique geographical environment and lighting advantages to promote the development of the photovoltaic industry.

Meanwhile, it also makes full use of the land under the photovoltaic panels to develop unique planting and breeding projects, which can greatly expand the channels through which farmers can increase their incomes.

"As of late September, the county has recorded a total revenue of 220 million yuan, benefiting around 36,000 households," Hu said.