Why does Shaanxi generate much of its electricity at thermal power plants?

Shaanxi generates the majority of its electricity at thermal power plants primarily due to the province's vast coal reserves.

The northern basin of Shaanxi contains enormous deposits of coal, ranking second in size only to those found in the neighboring province of Shanxi. Key mining operations, such as those at Tongchuan and Shenfu, provide the necessary fuel to support extensive thermal power generation. Additionally, the region possesses significant reserves of natural gas and petroleum, which further contribute to the province's capacity for thermal energy production. As a result of these abundant fossil fuel resources, Shaanxi is able to produce a surplus of electric power that is exported to neighboring provinces, even as the region continues to develop its hydroelectric capabilities on waterways like the Han River.1