美国工程师：看不懂中国，大力发展水力发电，却不知其中的危害

Core Viewpoint - China has become the world's leading country in hydropower generation capacity, achieving a balance between ecological protection and power generation, contrasting with the aging and inefficient dams in the United States [1][17]. Group 1: Historical Development - The story of China's hydropower began in 1912 with the Shilong Dam, which was built under challenging conditions to provide electricity to Kunming, symbolizing hope and national self-reliance [3][7]. - The construction of the Xin'anjiang Hydropower Station in 1957 marked the first large-scale hydropower project in New China, focusing on solving local energy shortages rather than competing globally [5][7]. Group 2: Technological Innovation and Ecological Protection - Modern Chinese hydropower development integrates technology and ecological protection, with innovations such as sediment control techniques and ecological scheduling that enhance fish spawning [15][13]. - The Three Gorges Dam features fish passages and elevators, demonstrating a commitment to ecological design while maintaining high energy output [11][15]. Group 3: International Influence and Comparison with the U.S. - China's hydropower projects abroad, such as in Cambodia and Nigeria, emphasize capacity building and sustainable development, contrasting with the U.S. approach of dam removal due to aging infrastructure [19][21]. - The U.S. faces challenges with its aging dams, with a significant portion deemed high-risk, while China continues to expand its hydropower capabilities and influence globally [17][21]. Group 4: Modern Achievements and Future Outlook - The completion of the Baihetan Hydropower Station signifies China's leading position in both scale and technology, with over 400 million kilowatts of installed capacity, accounting for 30% of global hydropower [9][24]. - China's hydropower narrative reflects a unique model of modernization and green development, showcasing a commitment to balancing energy needs with ecological sustainability [22][24].