Xinjiang's Shitoumei No 1 Open-Pit Coal Mine has made significant strides in the energy sector, emerging as a prime example of both intelligent and environmentally conscious mining practices. This accomplishment is largely a result of the adoption of advanced technologies in its coal production processes.

Situated in the Hami's Santanghu mining area, the mine has allocated 185 million yuan, equivalent to approximately 25.67 million dollars, towards the establishment of a sophisticated smart system. This system incorporates six essential components that include information infrastructure, mine design, intelligent drilling and blasting, mine engineering, intelligent assistance, and smart parks.

In a strategic partnership with China Mobile, the mine has achieved comprehensive 5G coverage, earning the reputation of one of the first 5G-connected factories in the region. Liu Fuyou, chief engineer of Xinjiang Hami Santanghu Energy Development and Construction Co Ltd, highlighted this achievement as a crucial advancement supporting the mine's operational efficiency.

A pivotal feature of this intelligent system is its focus on unmanned operations. Presently, 91 mining trucks are functioning autonomously, each capable of transporting up to 70 tons of coal at a time. This exceeds the capacity of a single train carriage, which carries about 60 tons.

Looking ahead, the mine has ambitious plans for a complete transition to driverless operations by 2026. This transition is expected to eliminate the need for 1,500 drivers who would otherwise be engaged in hazardous and labor-intensive work, thereby enhancing safety and operational efficiency in the mining process.

The Shitoumei No 1 mine boasts proven reserves totaling 3.575 billion tons, with a certified annual production capacity of 35 million tons. Of this output, the mine supplies around 8 million tons of high-quality coal to nearby power plants for electricity generation. The balance of the coal is transported via rail and highways to destinations including the Hexi Corridor, and the provinces of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan, contributing significantly to the regional energy supply.