In this article, we will be taking a look at the 5 countries that produce the most hydropower in the world. To see our detailed analysis, you can go directly to see 15 Countries That Produce The Most Hydropower.
5. Russia
Installed Hydropower Capacity: 55.7 GW
Having a total installed capacity of around 55.7 GW, and an annual power generation of around 165 billion kWh, Russia is placed fifth in terms of global hydropower production. Additionally, the country ranks second in the world for undeveloped hydropower resources, with economic potential reaching 852 TWh, despite only 20% of it currently being utilized. Currently, Russia recognizes only hydropower up to 25 MW as a renewable energy source, and according to the country’s Draft Energy Strategy, its production will is set to increase by up to 30% by 2035.
4. Canada
Installed Hydropower Capacity: 82.3 GW
Boasting an abundance of renewable energy sources with its huge landmass and diverse geography, Canada was the fourth largest producer of hydroelectricity in the world in 2021 after the United States, Brazil, and China. Since most of the dams with large reservoirs were completed before 1990, most of the country’s development has been run-of-the-river, both large and small. Major hydropower projects under construction in recent years include the 1,100 MW Site C project in British Columbia, the 824 MW Muskrat Falls project in Labrador, and the 695 MW Keeyask project in Manitoba.
3. United States
Installed Hydropower Capacity: 101.9 GW
Hydroelectricity is, as of 2019, the second-largest renewable source of energy in both generation and nominal capacity (behind wind power) in the United States. In 2021, hydroelectric power produced 31.5% of the total renewable electricity, and approximately 6.3% of the total U.S. electricity. Hydropower projects such as Hoover Dam, the Grand Coulee Dam, and the Tennessee Valley Authority have become iconic large construction projects that also attract a number of tourists.
2. Brazil
Installed Hydropower Capacity: 109.4 GW
Brazil has several large rivers, elevation changes and high levels of precipitation, which makes the South American country more than ideal for hydropower generation. With a total installed capacity of around 109.4 GW, hydropower is by far the main source for electricity generation in Brazil, accounting for around 55% of the country’s output in 2021, thus making the Brazilian electricity mix one of the cleanest in the world. Hydropower will continue to dominate electricity generation in Brazil, and is expected to account for 58.0% share in total annual generation in 2030.
1. China
Installed Hydropower Capacity: 391 GW
Endowed with high mountain valleys and sizeable rivers, China has benefitted greatly from the development of its water resources over recent decades. As a result, hydroelectricity is currently China’s largest renewable energy source and the second overall after coal. The country remains the world leader in respect to total hydropower installed capacity with over 390 GW. The largest Chinese hydropower station, the Three Gorges Dam in Hubei, has the world’s largest instantaneous generating capacity of 22,500 MW, with the Baihetan Dam following up in second place with a capacity of 16,000 MW.
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