Strategic energy drive in the fragile Himalayan region draws global scrutiny over ecological and human impacts

China’s large-scale expansion of renewable energy projects in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) has triggered alarm among environmentalists and human-rights groups, who warn of severe ecological and social consequences in one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems.

Over the past few years, Beijing has accelerated the construction of hydropower dams, wind farms and solar parks across the plateau, alongside intensive lithium extraction. The government portrays the initiative as central to its “green transition”, aimed at reducing carbon dependence and boosting clean energy capacity. However, researchers and civil society groups contend that the projects have proceeded with limited consultation of local communities and inadequate environmental oversight.

Hydropower schemes on major Tibetan rivers key sources of water for much of South and Southeast Asia are of particular concern. Studies suggest that these projects risk displacing settlements, damaging sacred cultural sites, and altering delicate high-altitude landscapes.

A recent analysis cited by The Diplomat and Climate Rights International notes that the renewable infrastructure in Tibet often serves dual civilian and military purposes. The installations strengthen China’s grid resilience and enhance its strategic presence near India. 

Rights advocates argue that the rapid exploitation of Tibet’s mineral and hydropower potential represents an extractive model rather than a sustainable transition. Groups including the International Campaign for Tibet and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) have urged greater transparency in environmental impact assessments and stronger safeguards for community consent.

The developments also carry geopolitical implications. Downstream nations such as India and Bangladesh are increasingly wary of how upstream dam management could affect regional water security.

Observers say that the global renewable supply chain, particularly in sectors reliant on Tibetan lithium, must weigh environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks more carefully. Without meaningful participation of local communities, Tibet’s clean-energy boom may deepen ecological damage and cultural displacement rather than advance genuine sustainability.