World Power Plants

Letan600 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

The Letan power station is a crucial hydroelectric power generation facility located in China, boasting a capacity of 600 MW. This power plant plays an essential role in harnessing the power of water to generate electricity, thus contributing significantly to the country's renewable energy mix. Positioned at coordinates 23.9700, 108.6100, Letan is strategically located in a region that benefits from ample water resources, making it a prime site for hydroelectric development. As a hydroelectric facility, Letan utilizes advanced technology to convert the kinetic energy of flowing water into electrical energy. This method of generation not only provides a renewable source of electricity but also operates with minimal environmental impact compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. The 600 MW capacity of the Letan power station allows it to effectively support the energy needs of local communities and industries, reinforcing the stability of the regional grid. The importance of the Letan power station extends beyond its immediate energy contributions; it reflects China's commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio and increasing the share of renewables in the national energy mix. With a growing focus on sustainability, hydroelectric power is becoming increasingly vital for ensuring energy security while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The operational efficiency of Letan aligns with national policies that encourage the development of clean energy sources. The local significance of the Letan power station cannot be understated, as it provides essential support for energy demands in the region. Its hydroelectric generation capabilities help stabilize the grid, particularly during peak usage times, ensuring that both residential and industrial consumers have reliable access to electricity. The facility's capacity contributes notably to the overall generation capabilities in its area, reflecting a broader trend towards renewable energy solutions in China. In summary, the Letan power station is a significant player in China's hydroelectric energy generation landscape, with a notable capacity of 600 MW. Its strategic location, combined with the advantages of hydroelectric technology, positions it as a vital asset for regional energy stability and sustainability, underscoring the ongoing transition towards a cleaner energy future.

Capacity
600 MW
Commissioning Year
1995

31 years old

Owner
China Yangtze Power Co., Ltd.
Location
23.9700°, 108.6100°

China, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 811. largest of 4,431 plants in China
  • #3,989 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #615 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.04% of the installed capacity of China
Age & fleet comparison

31 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

China Yangtze Power Co., Ltd. operates 23 plants totalling 31,196 MW

Regional density

9 plants within 100 km, 5,043 MW combined

Nearest plant: Datang Heshan power station (30.9 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 23.970000, 108.610000
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Letan is a hydro power plant producing approximately 2102 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
China
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

Letan Hydroelectric Power Plant: A Key Contributor to China's Renewable Energy Landscape

The Letan Hydroelectric Power Plant, located in China, is a significant facility with a generating capacity of 600 megawatts (MW). As a hydroelectric power plant, it harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity, making it a crucial player in the country's renewable energy sector. China's investment in hydroelectric power is part of its broader strategy to transition towards cleaner energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The Letan plant exemplifies this commitment, contributing to the national grid and supporting the country's ambitious goals for sustainable energy production.

Hydroelectric power is derived from the gravitational force of falling or flowing water. In the case of the Letan plant, water is collected in a reservoir and released through turbines, which convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy, ultimately generating electricity. This method of power generation is not only efficient but also has a relatively low operating cost once the infrastructure is established. The capacity of 600 MW places Letan among the larger hydroelectric facilities in China, allowing it to provide a substantial amount of electricity to both local and regional consumers.

In terms of environmental impact, hydroelectric power is often considered a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. The Letan plant produces electricity without emitting greenhouse gases during operation, helping to mitigate climate change. However, hydroelectric projects can also have significant ecological consequences, such as alterations to water flow, impact on aquatic habitats, and displacement of communities during the construction of dams and reservoirs. It is essential for the management of the Letan plant to implement best practices in environmental stewardship, ensuring that the benefits of renewable energy do not come at the expense of local ecosystems or communities.

Regionally, the Letan Hydroelectric Power Plant plays a vital role in stabilizing energy supply and supporting economic development. With China's rapid industrialization and urbanization, the demand for reliable electricity continues to grow. Hydroelectric plants like Letan are critical for meeting this demand, particularly in areas where traditional energy sources may be limited. By providing a steady and renewable source of energy, the Letan plant supports local industries and contributes to energy security in the region.

Overall, the Letan Hydroelectric Power Plant is an important element of China's energy landscape, reflecting the country's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development. Its capacity to generate 600 MW of hydroelectric power underscores the potential of water resources in contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

ChinaEnergy Profile

4,431
Total Plants
1617.1 GW
Total Capacity
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