The construction led to the destabilization of a unique ecosystem in the region.
Many species of flora and fauna face extinction because of landslides triggered by the erosion of the reservoir. Moreover, the dam generated a microclimate, with increased growth of algae.
Although the construction increased control over flooding, the volume of water held by the dam increased the number of earthquakes.
The Western Sichuan region of China was already an earthquake-prone area, but since the dam was constructed, it actually increased the number of geological disasters.
It is the largest hydropower station in the world.
It generates 100 billion kWh of electricity a year. In 2020, the dam generated 11,8 TWh, setting a world record previously held by the Itaipu Dam in South America.