Hydropower global capacity in key countries 2023

In 2023, Brazil had 109.8 gigawatts of installed hydropower capacity. China retained its place as the world leader in total hydropower installed capacity.

Hydropower in China

Hydropower is one of the most commonly used renewable energy sources. China accounted for a large portion of the world’s total hydropower capacity, totaling 421.54 gigawatts as of 2023. In comparison, the United States accounted for 102.12 gigawatts and Canada accounted for about 83 gigawatts. In 2023, China added 13 gigawatts of hydropower capacity. China’s state-owned enterprises operate almost all of the hydropower facilities in the country. Hydropower is one of the most cost-efficient renewable energy sources, however, there are several challenges such as long development periods, social displacement, and environmental impacts. As feasible locations become scarcer, investment into the hydroelectric industry may also decline.

Advantages of small hydropower plants

Small hydropower has some advantages over large-scale hydro plants, most noticeably its relatively lower environmental impact. It is a low impact option mostly as small hydro plants do not interfere significantly with river flows. However, a study conducted in Norway in 2011 indicated that many small hydro facilities may produce a larger impact than a few larger hydropower projects.