This Saturday, December 27, 2025, the Yebatan Hydropower Station—China’s highest-altitude hyperbolic arch dam project on the Jinsha River—powered up its first two generating units, bringing a fresh jolt to the nation’s green energy journey. ⚡🏔️
With a total capacity of 2.24 million kilowatts, Yebatan is the largest hydropower station in the Sichuan-Xizang section of the upper Jinsha River. Standing 217 meters tall, the dam faced extreme engineering challenges: high altitude, freezing temperatures, deep underground powerhouse chambers, and an ultra-high arch design. ❄️🔧
Developers broke new ground by mastering year-round concrete pouring in cold, high-altitude conditions—an industry first in the Chinese mainland. This seamless dam construction sets a blueprint for similar projects worldwide. 🌍🏗️
Once fully operational, Yebatan is expected to generate over 10.2 billion kilowatt-hours annually. That’s roughly 3.1 million tonnes of coal saved and more than 8.3 million tonnes of CO2 emissions cut each year—major wins in the fight against climate change. 💚🌱
The clean power will flow to central China via the Jinsha River-Hubei ±800 kV UHVDC transmission line, forming a hydropower-solar hybrid corridor. This upgrade helps diversify the energy mix, accelerate a low-carbon future, and bolster national energy security. 🔌🔋
As young professionals and students track the shift toward renewables, Yebatan stands as a symbol of innovation and ambition—proof that even at extreme heights, human ingenuity can light up thousands of homes. ✨😊
Reference(s):
China's highest-altitude hydropower station begins power generation
cgtn.com
