China plans to generate an extra 5000MW of hydro power annually in 2000-10, according to officials at the China State Power Corporation. China’s total hydroelectric power generating capacity accounts for only 13.8% of the total exploitable potential at present.

According to a mid and long term development plan, China will have a total hydroelectric power capacity of 70,000MW by 2000. By 2010 this will increase to 125,00MW or 33% of the country’s exploitable hydroelectric resources.