1. Three Gorges Dam, China
Located on the Yangtze River, the Three Gorges Dam is the world’s largest hydroelectric power station in terms of installed capacity. With a staggering capacity of over 22,500 MW, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control, power generation, and navigation along the Yangtze River.
2. Itaipu Dam, Brazil/Paraguay
Straddling the border between Brazil and Paraguay, the Itaipu Dam is a joint venture between the two countries. This mammoth structure has an installed capacity of around 14,000 MW, making it one of the largest operational hydroelectric plants in the world.
3. Xiluodu Dam, China
Situated on the Jinsha River, the Xiluodu Dam is another engineering marvel in China. With a capacity of approximately 13,860 MW, this dam significantly contributes to China’s renewable energy goals and serves as a vital source of electricity for the region.
4. Guri Dam, Venezuela
located on the Caroni River in Venezuela, has an installed capacity of around 10,200 MW. This dam not only generates a substantial amount of hydroelectric power but also provides water for irrigation, industrial use, and domestic consumption.
5. TucuruĂ Dam, Brazil
Nestled in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, the TucuruĂ Dam is a key player in Brazil’s energy landscape. With a capacity of approximately 8,370 MW, this dam harnesses the power of the Tocantins River to meet the electricity needs of millions of Brazilians.
6. Sayano-Shushenskaya Dam, Russia
The Sayano-Shushenskaya Dam, situated on the Yenisei River in Russia, boasts an impressive capacity of around 6,400 MW. Despite a tragic accident in 2009, this dam continues to be a vital source of hydropower for the region.
7. Grand Coulee Dam, United States
The Grand Coulee Dam, located on the Columbia River in the United States, has an installed capacity of approximately 6,809 MW. This iconic dam not only generates electricity but also provides irrigation water for agricultural lands in the region.
8. Longtan Dam, China
China’s Longtan Dam, nestled on the Hongshui River, has a capacity of around 6,426 MW. This dam contributes significantly to China’s renewable energy portfolio and plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
9. Krasnoyarsk Dam, Russia
Situated on the Yenisei River in Russia, the Krasnoyarsk Dam has an installed capacity of around 6,000 MW. This dam serves as a powerhouse for the region, supplying electricity and supporting industrial activities along the river.
10. Robert-Bourassa Dam, Canada
The Robert-Bourassa Dam, located on the La Grande River in Canada, boasts a capacity of approximately 5,616 MW. This dam is a cornerstone of Quebec’s hydropower infrastructure, providing clean energy to the province and beyond.