Longjiang (Yunnan) Dam — 240 MW Hydroelectric

Ranked #1193 among China’s 4,430 power generation facilities, the Longjiang (Yunnan) Dam stands as a notable player in the country’s hydroelectric sector. With a capacity of 240 MW, it is positioned as the 204th largest hydro facility out of 1,000 in China. This dam not only contributes to the local energy grid but also plays a critical role in the broader context of Yunnan Province’s energy landscape. The facility was commissioned in 2010 and utilizes hydropower technology to harness the energy of flowing water, making it a vital renewable energy source in a region where coal remains dominant. Nearby, other hydro plants like Yunnan Baoshan Dengke (120 MW), Yunnan Dayingjiang 2nd Tier (70 MW), and Yunnan Mangli (36 MW) create a small cluster of hydroelectric generation, although Longjiang’s capacity exceeds that of its immediate neighbors. Collectively, these plants contribute to Yunnan’s renewable energy goals, though Longjiang’s share of national capacity is merely 0.01%, highlighting the dominance of coal in China’s energy mix, where coal accounts for the majority of the 1,603,494 MW total capacity. The geographic context of Longjiang is significant as it is part of a mountainous region, making it less connected to larger urban centers, which adds to its strategic importance in local energy supply. Owned and operated by a regional authority, the Longjiang Dam is expected to continue supporting Yunnan’s energy demands while aligning with the country’s increasing focus on renewable energy sources. Its operational longevity and capacity are poised to contribute positively to environmental sustainability and economic growth in the area.