For Shallow Crossing Strategy (Most Feasible): 1. Basic Structure: - Length: ~20km (vs. 14.5km) - Maximum depth: ~400m - Material volume: ~1.6 billion m³ - Concrete costs: ~$160 billion - Steel reinforcement: ~$25 billion
For Deep Channel Bridge Strategy: - Estimated additional cost: $150-200 billion - Total could exceed $600 billion - Technical feasibility uncertain
The deeper understanding suggests: 1. Need to reduce maximum flow rates 2. More complex flow patterns 3. Possible reduction in power output to ~35-40 GW 4. Annual generation: ~280-300 TWh
Technical Challenges: 1. Unprecedented depth for dam construction 2. Material strength limitations 3. Construction methodologies unproven 4. Seismic risks more significant 5. Foundation conditions uncertain
The "Shallow Crossing" strategy emerges as the most feasible approach, despite higher material costs. The deep channel options present potentially insurmountable engineering challenges with current technology.
Economic Analysis (Shallow Crossing): - Cost per kW: ~$10,000-11,400 - Annual revenue (at $0.10/kWh): ~$26 billion - Payback period: ~15-17 years - ROI: ~6.5% annual
The project remains theoretically viable but with: - Significantly higher costs - Greater technical risks - Longer payback period - More complex construction challenges
This revised analysis suggests the project would be more expensive and technically challenging than initially estimated, but potentially still feasible using the "Shallow Crossing" strategy. The deep channel makes a full-depth dam impractical with current technology.