Abstract: The major geology challenges in the Xiaojia River Hydropower Station in Yichang are: stability of rock mass surrounding the intake water tunnel, pressurized water pipes; high rock cut slopes at the power house etc. This paper presents the results of the geotechnical investigations. The geology and topography of the proposed site are analyzed; the stability of the intake water tunnel is evaluated throughout the rock mass classification process; the stability of the high rock cut slope is numerically analyzed. The recommendations for the design and construction are also proposed.

Key words: xiaojia river hydropower station, engineering geology, rock mass, stability of high rock cut slopes