Large areas of deserts exist in the upper and middle reaches of the Yellow River and adjacent inland flow areas. The radiation area developed by Heishan Gorge is one of the key areas for the construction of ecological projects in China's northern sand-proof belt, which is the key zone for sand prevention and sand control in China. Dr. WANG Guangqian said that the development of water resources in Heishan Gorge provides water resources guarantee for the utilization of desert land resources in its radiation area, which is of great significance for the ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River.

Dr. WANG Guangqian pointed out that based on the Heishan Gorge Hydraulic Project, a clean energy base integrating wind, light, water, and storage will be built. It can reduce CO2 emission by about 0.92 billion tons per year, which can contribute 0.8% to carbon peak, 1.56% to emission reduction of energy activities, 2.5% to emission reduction of electric power production, and 6.4% to carbon reduction of the four provinces in the upper reaches of the Yellow River. Therefore, the construction of a clean energy base based on the Heishan Gorge Hydraulic Project is an important way to realize "carbon peak and carbon neutrality".

For the subsequent development and utilization, Dr. WANG Guangqian suggests:

First, accelerate the implementation of the Heishan Gorge Project construction demonstration. Comprehensive comparison of the gradient layout, dam site, dam height, scale, fully study the functional positioning of the construction of the Heishan Gorge Project, and form a balance of interests in its radiation area.

Secondly, the funding for the development of the Heishan Gorge and the supporting facilities for desert land water supply in the radiating area can be resolved through a balanced transaction of farmland occupation and compensation. The preliminary estimate for direct investment in the development of the Heishan Gorge Project and immigration compensation is approximately 38 billion yuan. It is suggested that this portion of funds be resolved through farmland occupation and compensation balance transaction. A "Western Regional Development Fund" could be established. Each year, 80,000 to 120,000 mu of land can be sold, and the funds can be used to complete all the necessary projects. If there is a balance of funds, it can be used for transportation construction, ecological construction, development of education, etc. in the western region.