A solar power station shaped like giant pandas started operation in Datong, North China's Shanxi province, Aug 14, 2017. [Photo/VCG]

A solar power station shaped like giant pandas started operation in Datong, North China's Shanxi province, Aug 14, 2017.

The design idea was proposed by a 17-year-old overseas Chinese student, who hoped that it would make people think about protecting the environment by using green power.

About 100 similar panda-shaped solar power stations are expected to be built in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative in the next five years.