Energy Case Study: Three Gorges Dam

Question 1

Advantages

Answer 1

100 million people downstream are protected from flooding
HEP is needed to supply China’s growing industry and domestic use
Will provide 2% of China’s energy needs
Improved shipping as larger cargo boats (up to 10,000 tonnes) can travel upstream to Chongqing
New settlements have better services

Question 2

Disadvantages

Answer 2

1.3 million people relocated often without adequate compensation
4 cities, 8 towns and 356 villages submerged
Risk of earthquakes cracking dam and causing flooding
$27 billion to build
Loss of species like Yangtse river dolphin

Question 3

Location

Answer 3

Yangtse river in central China (3rd largest river in world)
Produces 22,500 MW of electricity
Largest HEP station in world