Zhejiang Tangcun 32MW Hydropower Project

Harnessing Renewable Energy in Zhejiang Province: A Run-of-River Hydropower Initiative

Nestled on the Tongxi River within Chun’an County, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China, this impactful project showcases the power of sustainable hydropower. This run-of-river facility boasts an installed capacity of 32MW (2 x 16MW), meticulously designed to minimize environmental impact. Water is skillfully diverted from the existing Longtou Reservoir via a dedicated water diversion tunnel, with its tailwater returning to the Tongxi River.

This project optimizes the region’s existing infrastructure. Prior to its implementation, three downstream hydropower plants (Yungang I, II, and III) collectively generated 9.12MW. To maximize efficiency and reduce redundancy, the Yungang I plant (5MW capacity) ceased operation, and the electricity generation from the other plants was adjusted to 3,580MWh.

The project contributes significantly to the East China Power Grid, feeding in an estimated 54,180MWh of clean electricity annually. Accounting for the adjustments made to the existing plants, the net electricity generated by the project amounts to 31,692MWh, displacing reliance on fossil fuels.

This vital renewable energy initiative has garnered recognition and support from esteemed organizations, including the Asian Development Bank as Trustee of the Future Carbon Fund, the Swedish Energy Agency, and the Kingdom of Spain, underscoring its credibility and global significance.

Contribution to Sustainable Development

This project is committed to fostering holistic sustainable development, demonstrably contributing to social, economic, environmental, and technological well-being within the region.

Contribution to Social Wellbeing:

• The project generates 16 additional jobs in Chun’an County, absorbing staff previously employed at existing plants. It also stimulates local economic activity by strengthening the regional grid, improving electricity quality, frequency, and availability.
• Demonstrating a strong commitment to community upliftment, the project owner has pledged an annual donation of 30,000 RMB to the local She minority community for economic development and poverty alleviation within Chun’an County for 2022, 2023, and beyond.

Contribution to Economic Wellbeing:

• The project creates direct and indirect employment opportunities for the local She minority community, with a focus on empowering female and impoverished families.
• By optimizing water resource utilization and generating revenue through electricity sales and carbon credits (CERs), the project stimulates the local economy, increases tax revenue for the local government, and alleviates power shortages in Zhejiang Province, a key economic hub in China.

Contribution to Environmental Wellbeing:

• The project effectively displaces electricity generation from coal-fired power plants within the fossil fuel-dependent East China Power Grid, resulting in a significant reduction in air pollution associated with coal combustion.

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