Xidahe Hydroelectric Power Plant | 21 MW Facility in China

Xidahe is a hydroelectric power plant situated in China, with coordinates 38.133° N, 101.405° E. The facility has a capacity of 21 megawatts, placing it in the small-scale range for hydroelectric plants. It is currently operational, providing clean energy to the grid. As a hydroelectric facility, Xidahe operates without direct fuel combustion, resulting in negligible emissions of CO2, SOx, and NOx. The plant's technology is typical of run-of-river or reservoir-based hydro projects common in China. China's regulatory framework for hydropower includes environmental impact assessments and water resource management under the Water Law and the Environmental Protection Law. The plant's location in a region with significant water resources supports its role in renewable energy generation. Xidahe contributes to China's ambitious targets for increasing non-fossil fuel energy sources, helping to reduce reliance on coal-fired power and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

As a hydroelectric plant, Xidahe has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants. Its operation does not produce direct air pollutants such as SOx or NOx. However, hydroelectric projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's capacity of 21 MW suggests a relatively small reservoir or run-of-river design, which typically minimizes environmental disruption. The surrounding area's hydrology and biodiversity are important considerations for sustainable operation.