The group quickly pointed out one of the main advantages of power, being operational costs which are are between ¼ and 1/3 of coal or nuclear sources. Espically at a time when energy needs are ever increasing and accelerating hydro would meet scale needs and also allow for a relatively low carbon impact. The group did not rule out carbon trading benefits which might come as a result.
Furthermore the China Energy Research Institute noted in it’s 2006 report that in 2005 115 GW were operational in China including the Three Gorges Dam. By 2010 this figure should increase to 180 GW with a goal of 300 GW by 2020.
