7 Hydropower Projects with 3,110 MW Capacity to be Commissioned in FY-24

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The Indian government is making significant strides to enhance the country's hydropower capacity, particularly focusing on the Northeast region. In the financial year 2023-24, seven hydropower projects with a total capacity of 3,110 megawatts (MW) are set to be commissioned, aimed at addressing the demand-supply gap in electricity.

Key Projects and Timeline

  1. Naitwar Mori (60 MW) and Tehri (1,000 MW) in Uttarakhand
  2. Pallivasal (60 MW) and Thottiyar (40 MW) in Kerala
  3. Tidong-1 (150 MW) and Parbati (800 MW) in Himachal Pradesh
  4. Subansiri (1,000 MW) in Arunachal Pradesh

Three of these projects, totaling 140 MW, are expected to become operational by May and June 2023, coinciding with the peak electricity demand period.

Challenges and Adjustments

The government has also requested the reactivation of the non-operational Kishenganga and Sainj projects to meet the April demand crunch, as peak hydro availability is forecasted to be 18% lower than last year due to expected hot and dry conditions.

Hydropower Contribution and Future Plans

Hydropower currently contributes about 11% to India's energy mix. The successful commissioning of these projects will add 2,990 MW to the existing capacity, a significant increase from the 120 MW added in FY 2023.

Controversies and Environmental Impact

The Tapovan Vishnugad project in Uttarakhand has faced delays and opposition due to environmental concerns, particularly after the land subsidence in Joshimath. The project’s timeline has been extended to December 2024 for partial commissioning, with no set date for full completion.

Regional Focus and Potential

The Northeast is a critical area for hydropower development, with projects amounting to 5,000 MW under construction, reflecting both geopolitical considerations and the region’s vast hydropower potential. The Brahmaputra River alone can contribute to 40% of India's hydropower capacity, highlighting the strategic importance of the region.

Overall, the government is actively pushing to harness the hydropower potential across various regions, with a clear emphasis on the Northeast, to secure energy independence and address environmental challenges.

🌐 Sources

  1. blackridgeresearch.com - Top 7 Largest Hydroelectric Power Plants In India
  2. moneycontrol.com - 7 hydropower projects with 3110 MW capacity to be commissioned in FY 24
  3. pib.gov.in - Hydroelectric power projects with aggregate capacity of 15
  4. byjus.com - List of Hydroelectric Power Plants in India - UPSC Notes
  5. pib.gov.in - Nine Hydroelectric Projects of 2412 MW capacity
  6. wikipedia.org - List of largest hydroelectric power stations

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