In 2018, a single power plant produced more energy than the world's largest coal-powered and gas-powered plants combined. China's Three Gorges Dam relies on running water, and is capable of producing more energy than any other power plant on Earth. So what allows Three Gorges to generate all this power? And how do hydroelectric plants work in the first place? Alex Gendler investigates. [Directed by Franz Palomares, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Salil Bhayani].

Alex Gendler: Building the world's largest (and most controversial) power plant

Building the world's largest (and most controversial) power plant

The Three Gorges Dam, harnessing the Yangtze's power, prevents deadly floods and lights up cities, spotlighting hydro's potential.

Despite its record-breaking capabilities, Three Gorges Dam's displacement of 1.4M people underscores the human cost of megastructures.

Itaipu's consistent flow trumps Three Gorges in energy output, proving that location and natural conditions shape a dam's success.