YREC implements the strategy of innovation-driven development, focuses on the building-up of innovation systems, research on major issues, popularization and application, and nurturing of high-level talents. It has maintained the national high-tech enterprise qualification for more than ten consecutive years, and possesses a number of research platforms, which include Key Laboratory of Yellow River Basin Water Management and Security of MWR, National Enterprise Technology Center, YRCC Engineering Technology Research Center of Coordinated Reservoir Operation, Academician Working Station, Postdoctoral Programme, Henan Engineering Technology Research Center of Underground Spatial Structures, Engineering Technology Center of Yellow River Basin Ecological Conservation and High-quality Development, Henan Engineering Research Center of Urban Water Resources and Environment, etc.

YREC has leading technology advantages in sediment studies and application, water and sediment regulation, comprehensive utilization of water resources, coordinated operation of reservoirs, investigation and design of high dam and large reservoir, consolidation and treatment of high slope, design of steel structure and hoist, complicated foundation treatment, embankment deficiency detection and smart water management. YREC won more than 30 National Prizes for Progress in Science and Technology and national “Four-Excellence Prizes”, more than 300 Provincial Prizes for Progress in Science and Technology and provincial “Four-Excellence Prizes”. More than 90 national and industry standards and specifications were drafted under its name. More than 600 national patents were granted including more than 200 patents for invention. YREC has proved its remarkable technological capability and performance in investigation and design of water resources and hydropower projects.