China’s hydropower dives to 9% in Q1’ 24

China’s hydropower generation experienced a significant setback in the first quarter of 2024, reaching its lowest share of total electricity output in at least eight years, according to data from think tank Ember, reported by Reuters on Wednesday.

Hydropower accounted for just nine per cent of China’s electricity mix during this period, a sharp drop from the five-year average of 11 per cent.

While total hydro generation showed a modest two per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023 (reaching 212 terawatt hours), it remained well below potential capacity due to a prolonged drought since mid-2022.

This decline in hydropower output has forced power companies to rely heavily on coal-fired generation to meet energy demands, pushing coal use to record highs this year.

However, recent heavy rains across key southern and southwestern regions offer a promising outlook for a significant rebound in hydropower generation. The timing coincides favorably with the upcoming summer months, when China typically experiences peak rainfall during the East Asian monsoon season.

In June 2022, the last summer with average hydropower output, hydro dams supplied over 20 per cent of the nation’s electricity, providing a crucial source of clean power during peak demand for air conditioning.