Taiyuan municipal planning bureau has recently published a basic layout of Shanxi Demonstration Area for Economic Transformation and Reform, according to Shanxi Daily.

The blueprint includes 16 types of infrastructure construction, such as water, electricity, gas, and heat supplies as well as road and landscape construction. The first stage is expected to be completed by 2020 and the entire project by 2030.

According to the plan, the construction will be carried out using eco-friendly principles to ensure a balanced development between economy and environment.

Water consumption in the demonstration area is estimated to reach 260,000 tons per day. To meet the large demand, a domestic water system and a reclaimed water system will be built. Reclaimed water is preferred to be used in environmental sanitation and greenbelt irrigation.

As to the energy supply, the government will promote solar power systems and other renewable sources, especially in industrial plants. Two 2200kV substations, nine 110kV substations, three gas stations and 230 heating stations will be established in the area.

The highlight of the layout is the initiative of a "sponge city", which focuses on permeable surfaces and water infrastructure to realize the full utilization of rainwater. Colleting systems will be built in public areas, such as schools and residential areas, while permeable materials will be used in the road construction to increase groundwater absorption. The amount of green coverage is expected to reach 36.6 percent by completion.

Seven waste transit stations and 155 public toilets will also be set up in the area to guarantee a clean environment.