The prefecture-level city of Lishui in East China's Zhejiang province has abundant water resources – including rivers, lakes and dams – the total amount of which ranks first in the province.

Currently, Lishui is utilizing those resources to a much greater extent, to harness the water economy – the economic growth generated by multiple water projects – with the aim of developing the  industry as a new growth driver.

According to official data, at present, the city is planning a total of 80 water resources development and utilization projects. These include integrating water and tourism, aquatic product developments and aquaculture and the 80 projects will cost an estimated 73.6 billion yuan ($11.39 billion).

The water data center, in Jinshuitan township in Yunhe county – which involves the construction of a hydroelectric power station – was a major project last year in Lishui with an investment of 1.5 billion yuan funded by the State Grid Corporation of China, or SGCC.

After completion, the data center is expected to save 152 million kilowatt-hours of energy consumption per year, equivalent to reducing carbon emissions by more than 90,000 tons, according to SGCC officials.

Relying on its surface water resources which have low inorganic substances and pollutants, Lishui is striving to deepen its research into the development of "high-end water", as well as natural weak alkaline water products and medical beauty products.

The city is also committed to developing its waterside economy and above-water economy, aiming to create a water tourism industry with local characteristics.