China has commenced the construction of the Medog Hydropower Station on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, marking the beginning of what is projected to be the world's largest hydropower facility. Premier Li Qiang inaugurated the project in Nyingchi, emphasizing its significance for China's renewable energy goals and economic development.
The Medog Hydropower Station is designed to generate approximately 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, surpassing the output of the Three Gorges Dam. The project is part of China's broader strategy to transition to green and low-carbon energy sources, contributing to the nation's climate neutrality objectives.
However, the project has raised concerns among environmentalists and neighboring countries. The Yarlung Tsangpo River flows into India and Bangladesh, where it is known as the Brahmaputra and the Jamuna, respectively. Experts have highlighted potential ecological impacts, including the risk of landslides and the displacement of local communities. Additionally, the project's location in a seismically active region has prompted discussions about its long-term viability and safety.
Despite these concerns, Chinese authorities have stated that the project will prioritize ecological protection and is essential for meeting the country's growing energy demands. The Medog Hydropower Station is expected to be completed by 2033, with construction costs estimated to exceed 1 trillion yuan (approximately $137 billion USD).