World's second-largest hydropower dam is now operational

30 Jun 2021

Image depicting hydropower dam, renewable energy

World’s second-largest hydropower dam is now operational

World’s second-largest hydropower dam is now operationalHydropower, also known as water power, is the use of falling or fast-running water to produce electricity (hydroelectricity). We generate hydropower by building dams on rivers. It is a form of renewable energy.

On Monday, China started operating the world's second-largest hydropower station. This is the Baihetan Hydropower Station in southwest China. The dam is 289-metres high and located on the Yangtze, China's longest river.

Baihetan has a total installed capacity of 16,000 megawatts. This means it can generate enough electricity every day once to meet the power needs of 500,000 people for an entire year.

China's large population needs a lot of energy. However, as it is looking to produce clean energy, it has been concentrating on hydropower. Baihetan station is aimed to help China reach its environmental and climate goals.

China also has the world's largest hydropower dam, the Three Gorges Dam. Not only that, but it is also planning another mega-dam in Tibet, which will be even bigger than the Three Gorges Dam.
Downside of hydropower
However, while hydropower is renewable energy, building dams can be bad for the environment as it damages the area around it. This puts plants and animals in danger. It also affects the river and especially those who live downstream.

There are so many interesting and exciting things happening in the world today. To keep yourself updated do not miss out on reading Curious Times – a news website for children. We engage and educate kids through news, information and trivia.

We are also delighted to publish what children send to us in My Expressions. These could be art and creative projects, their thoughts in the form of drawings, paintings, photographs and write-ups; and also books, games or movie reviews. Reach out to us on WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook. Youtube, Twitter, Linked In, Or write to us at hello@curioustimes.in.

Recommended for Middle Grades

Hydropower, also known as water power, is the use of falling or fast-running water to produce electricity (hydroelectricity). We generate hydropower by building dams on […]

To read more...

Share your comment! Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

To post your comment Login/Signup