By Wang Yinan, Research Institute of Resources and Environment Policies, DRC

Research Report, No.189, 2021 (Total 6254) 2021-7-7

Abstract: China is a developing country with the largest population and the largest coal consumption in the world. To achieve the carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets on schedule, the task is daunting and the challenge is severe as never witnessed before. There are many important issues remaining to be clarified and one of which is how to correctly understand the function of small hydropower development in China. Small hydropower is an environmental-friendly, green, low-carbon and renewable energy which is commonly recognized in the world. However, it has become synonymous with the claim of damaging ecological environment in some people’s minds in recent years and in some areas small hydropower plants have been closed in an indiscriminate way. Now it is urgent to correct such bias against small hydropower projects and resume the true function of small hydropower projects in a scientific and rational manner. This paper analyzes the indispensable role of small hydropower plants in the course of achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets, protecting ecological environment, and realizing high-quality development in rural and remote areas in China. In addition, it puts forward some policy options for sustainable and healthy development of small hydropower projects in China to help achieve carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets.

Keywords: small hydropower projects, carbon peak, carbon neutrality, ecological environment, policy options