Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the commencement of the Yarlung Tsangpo River downstream hydropower project, which is considered a "century project" with a total investment of approximately 1.2 trillion yuan, equivalent to five Three Gorges Dams, four Sichuan-Tibet railways, or ten Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao bridges [2][4]. Investment and Economic Impact - The Yarlung hydropower station is expected to have an installed capacity of 60 million kilowatts and an annual power generation of about 300 billion kilowatt-hours, which is equivalent to three Three Gorges projects [3][10]. - The project is anticipated to significantly boost the economy of Tibet, potentially generating over 20 billion yuan in annual fiscal revenue once operational, which is crucial for a region with a GDP of only 276.5 billion yuan in 2024 [16][18]. - The hydropower project will also enhance the "West-East Electricity Transmission" strategy, providing a substantial amount of clean energy to eastern and central provinces, with the potential for annual electricity exports exceeding 100 billion kilowatt-hours [20][21]. Strategic Considerations - The project is not only an economic initiative but also a strategic move to control water resources in a transboundary river, enhancing China's position in international negotiations regarding water rights and environmental impacts [12]. - The construction of the hydropower stations will take approximately 10 to 20 years, indicating a long-term commitment to energy infrastructure development [7]. Future Infrastructure Trends - The article notes a shift in infrastructure investment focus, moving away from traditional large-scale projects to four categories: digital infrastructure, livelihood projects, internal circulation projects like canals and nuclear power stations, and strategically significant super projects [28][29]. - Despite the decline of the large-scale infrastructure era, significant investment opportunities remain in mega projects like the Yarlung Tsangpo hydropower station, which are driven by economic, geopolitical, and security considerations [31].