China issues guideline to accelerate green transformation of small hydropower sector

An aerial drone photo taken on Nov. 2, 2025 shows the Three Gorges Dam and its outbound power transmission lines in Yichang, central China's Hubei Province. (Photo by Wang Huifu/Xinhua)

BEIJING, March 18 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Water Resources, along with six other departments, has issued a guideline to accelerate the green transformation and high-quality development of the country's small hydropower sector.

The guideline outlines key tasks for the current and next-stage development of the small hydropower sector, setting a clear target to basically achieve intelligent, intensive and standardized operation of small hydropower stations by 2035.

By this point, China aims to foster a high-quality development pattern of small hydropower that aligns with the country's comprehensive green transition of economic and social development, according to the ministry.

The guideline emphasizes strict development control, renovation and upgrading, ecological protection and workplace safety of small hydropower stations, as well as their role in supporting rural revitalization.

The ministry will work with relevant departments to promote implementation, guide local authorities to refine tasks and solve problems during implementation, and ensure solid outcomes to support China's green transition.