Yunnan Hydropower Stations

Yunnan, known for its rich water resources, plays a pivotal role in China’s hydropower production. The province has developed a number of major hydropower stations along its rivers, particularly the Mekong (Lancang) and Yangtze (Jinsha), contributing significantly to both local energy production and national power generation. Yunnan’s hydropower potential is vast, with surplus electricity that is exported to neighboring provinces, bolstering the region’s economic growth. The province’s six water systems serve as the foundation for its hydropower development, providing a steady source of renewable energy.

Major Hydropower Stations in Yunnan

1. Xiangjiaba Hydro Power Station (向家坝水电站)

• Coordinates: 28°38′41″N 104°23′32″E

• River: Yangtze (Jinsha)

• Total Capacity: 7,750 MW

• Dam Height: 161 meters

• Status: Operational (8800MW, 3450MW)

2. Xiluodu Hydro Power Station (溪洛渡水电站)

• Coordinates: 28°15′06″N 103°39′34″E

• River: Yangtze (Jinsha)

• Total Capacity: 13,860 MW

• Dam Height: 278 meters

• Status: Operational (18*770MW)

3. Baihetan Hydro Power Station (白鹤滩水电站)

• Coordinates: 27°13′22″N 102°54′10″E

• River: Yangtze (Jinsha)

• Total Capacity: 16,000 MW

• Dam Height: 289 meters

• Status: Under construction (16*1,000MW)

4. Wudongde Hydro Power Station (乌东德水电站)

• Coordinates: 26°20′02″N 102°37′48″E

• River: Yangtze (Jinsha)

• Total Capacity: 10,200 MW

• Dam Height: 270 meters

• Status: Under construction (12*850MW)

5. Jinghong Hydro Power Station (景洪水电站)

• Coordinates: 22°03′06″N 100°46′01″E

• River: Lancang (Mekong)

• Total Capacity: 1,750 MW

• Dam Height: 108 meters

• Status: Operational (5*350MW)

6. Nuozadu Hydro Power Station (糯扎渡水电站)

• Coordinates: 22°38′17″N 100°25′56″E

• River: Lancang (Mekong)

• Total Capacity: 5,850 MW

• Dam Height: 261.5 meters

• Status: Operational (9*650MW)

7. Dachaoshan Hydro Power Station (大朝山水电站)

• Coordinates: 24°01′30″N 100°22′12″E

• River: Lancang (Mekong)

• Total Capacity: 1,350 MW

• Dam Height: 111 meters

• Status: Operational (6*225MW)

8. Manwan Hydro Power Station (漫湾水电站)

• Coordinates: 24°37′17″N 100°26′53″E

• River: Lancang (Mekong)

• Total Capacity: 1,500 MW

• Dam Height: 132 meters

• Status: Operational (5*300MW)

9. Xiaowan Hydro Power Station (小湾水电站)

• Coordinates: 24°42′19″N 100°05′32″E

• River: Lancang (Mekong)

• Total Capacity: 4,200 MW

• Dam Height: 292 meters

• Status: Operational (6*700MW)

Hydropower Expansion and Future Developments

Yunnan continues to invest in its hydropower infrastructure, with several proposed and under-construction projects aimed at increasing the province’s energy production capacity. This includes stations such as Baihetan and Wudongde, which will become some of the largest in the country once completed. These developments not only meet the energy needs of Yunnan but also support the broader national grid, particularly in the context of renewable energy.