How much pumped storage capacity is China expected to have by 2035?

China’s pumped storage capacity is forecast to increase from 65.9GW in 2025 to 238.7GW by 2035, according to GlobalData’s China Power Outlook, Update 2026. This represents an increase of 172.8GW over the decade and is considerably faster than the expected growth in conventional large hydropower capacity.

Why is China investing so heavily in pumped storage hydropower?

The expansion is primarily intended to provide greater flexibility to China’s rapidly growing electricity system. With wind and solar capacity increasing, pumped storage can provide peak shaving, frequency regulation, energy storage, reserve capacity and other grid services. This is reflected in forecasts showing pumped storage capacity rising sharply even though combined generation from large hydropower and pumped storage is expected to remain broadly stable.

What are the main engineering challenges facing China’s pumped storage projects?

Projects currently under construction demonstrate a range of challenges, including difficult geology, groundwater, karst formations, faults, mountainous terrain, heavy rainfall and restricted underground working conditions. Projects such as Pingjiang, Qinzhou and Zaozhuang Shanting are using specialised construction methods, detailed geological monitoring and customised tunnelling equipment to address these conditions.

China’s pumped storage buildout accelerates

Aerial view of the Pingjiang upper reservoir. Image courtesy of China Aneng Group First Engineering Bureau Co. Ltd

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Frequently asked questions

How much pumped storage capacity is China expected to have by 2035?

China’s pumped storage capacity is forecast to increase from 65.9GW in 2025 to 238.7GW by 2035, according to GlobalData’s China Power Outlook, Update 2026. This represents an increase of 172.8GW over the decade and is considerably faster than the expected growth in conventional large hydropower capacity.
Why is China investing so heavily in pumped storage hydropower?

The expansion is primarily intended to provide greater flexibility to China’s rapidly growing electricity system. With wind and solar capacity increasing, pumped storage can provide peak shaving, frequency regulation, energy storage, reserve capacity and other grid services. This is reflected in forecasts showing pumped storage capacity rising sharply even though combined generation from large hydropower and pumped storage is expected to remain broadly stable.
What are the main engineering challenges facing China’s pumped storage projects?

Projects currently under construction demonstrate a range of challenges, including difficult geology, groundwater, karst formations, faults, mountainous terrain, heavy rainfall and restricted underground working conditions. Projects such as Pingjiang, Qinzhou and Zaozhuang Shanting are using specialised construction methods, detailed geological monitoring and customised tunnelling equipment to address these conditions.