Xiaowan Dam
The Xiaowan Dam is a large hydroelectric arch dam on the Lancang (Mekong) River in Yunnan Province, southwest China. It is the world's highest arch dam and will be the second largest hydroelectric power station in China after the Three Gorges Dam. Construction started on 1 January 2002. The river was dammed in October 2004. The first generator was commissioned in September 2009 and the dam was complete in March 2010. The first generator was commissioned in September 2009 and the dam was complete in March 2010.

Xiaowan Dam is the highest arch dam in the world with height of 292 m (958 ft). It creates a 15,000,000,000 m3 (5.3×1011 cu ft) reservoir with an area of more than 190 km2 (73 sq mi). The hydroelectric power station will eventually consist of six generating units with generating capacity of 700 MW each. The total generating capacity of the project will be 4,200 MW. The first generator went into operation in September 2009 and the last one is expected in 2013. The cost of the Xiaowan hydropower station is estimated at ¥32 billion (nearly US$3.9 billion). The hydroelectric power station is being constructed and operated by Huaneng Power International.
Xiaowan Dam
Official name 小湾坝
Status In use
Construction began 1 January 2002
Opening date March 2010
Construction cost US$3.9 billion
Dam and spillways
Height 292 m (958 ft)
Reservoir
Capacity 15,000,000,000 m3 (5.3×1011 cu ft)
Surface area 190 km2 (73 sq mi)
Power station
Operator(s) Huaneng
Commission date 2009 (first unit)
Turbines 6 × 700MW
Installed capacity 700 MW
Maximum capacity 4,200 MW