Monday, February 16, 2026

Markets cheer as China starts building world’s largest hydropower dam

China has once again proven its commitment to clean and sustainable energy with the launch of the world’s largest hydropower dam on the eastern rim of the Tibetan Plateau. The ambitious project, estimated to cost at least $170 billion, will not only meet the country’s growing energy demands but also play a crucial role in mitigating climate change.

The dam, named the Dadu River Dam, is being built at the confluence of the Dadu and Yalong rivers in Sichuan province. It will have a total installed capacity of 38 gigawatts, surpassing the current record holder, the Three Gorges Dam, which has a capacity of 22.5 gigawatts.

The project, which has been in the planning phase for over a decade, is expected to be completed in 2029. Once operational, it will generate an estimated 90 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, enough to power more than 30 million households. This will greatly reduce China’s reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to the country’s goal of reaching peak carbon emissions by 2030.

But the benefits of this dam go beyond providing clean energy. The Dadu River Dam will also serve as a flood control mechanism, protecting the region from devastating floods that are common in the area. It will also facilitate irrigation, improving the agricultural output of the surrounding areas and boosting the local economy.

The project has faced some criticism from environmental organizations, who argue that the dam will have adverse effects on the surrounding ecosystem. However, the Chinese government has taken strict measures to minimize any potential impact on the environment. The construction of the dam has been planned in a way that will not disturb the natural flow of the rivers or disrupt the migration patterns of aquatic species.

Furthermore, the project will also include the construction of fish ladders to ensure the safe passage of fish and other aquatic animals. This is a testament to China’s commitment to balancing economic development with environmental conservation.

The Dadu River Dam is also a significant step towards China’s goal of becoming a global leader in renewable energy. The country has made significant investments in clean energy in recent years, and this dam is just another example of its determination to reduce its carbon footprint.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the construction of the dam will also create thousands of job opportunities for the local communities. This will have a positive impact on the region’s economy and improve the standard of living for its residents.

China is known for its impressive engineering feats, and the construction of the world’s largest hydropower dam is yet another example of the country’s expertise in this field. The project is being built using advanced technology and techniques, making it a showcase of China’s engineering capabilities.

The launch of the construction of the Dadu River Dam is a significant milestone for China, and it has already garnered global attention. It is a testament to the country’s determination to lead the world in sustainable development and addressing the issue of climate change.

In conclusion, China’s initiative to build the world’s largest hydropower dam is a groundbreaking step towards a cleaner and greener future. The project will not only provide much-needed clean energy but also bring numerous benefits to the surrounding communities. It is a testament to China’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and leading the world towards a more eco-friendly future. With this dam, China is setting a positive example for other countries to follow and creating a better world for future generations.

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