Hydroelectric Power Sector: Challenges, Growth, and Renewable Energy Transition
Amid India's ongoing energy transition, the development of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) assumes significance.
April 06, 2024. By Abha Rustagi
The fall in hydropower generation during the fiscal year 2023-24, compared to the previous year, cannot be solely attributed to reduced rainfall. While the southern region, contributing approximately 22 percent of total hydro energy, faced low rainfall, the Northern and Eastern regions, accounting for over 60 percent of generation, were severely affected by natural calamities. Flash floods in Himachal Pradesh and the Eastern region disrupted operations at numerous power stations, significantly hindering energy generation.
Despite challenges, there is optimism regarding the replenishment of water reservoir capacities. The Indian Meteorological Department's prediction of higher rainfall in the fiscal year 2024-25 suggests a potential reversal of the downward trend. This anticipated increase in rainfall could contribute to replenishing reservoir capacities lost during the previous year's scarce rainfall.
Amid India's ongoing energy transition, the development of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) assumes significance. PSPs act as 'the Water Battery,' providing essential inertia and balancing power to the grid, complementing modern clean energy systems. Currently, PSPs with a total capacity of 2.7 GW are under construction, with an additional 50 GW in various stages of development. It is projected that PSP capacity will increase from 4.7 GW to approximately 55 GW by 2031-32.
Hydroelectric power plays a crucial role in India's energy landscape, offering essential peaking support to the electricity grid and enhancing its reliability and resilience. Despite challenges such as natural calamities and geological surprises, the government is committed to accelerating hydropower development. This commitment aligns with India's ambitious targets outlined in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the COP Paris Agreement, aiming to reduce emissions intensity and increase the share of non-fossil fuel-based energy sources in the country's energy mix.
As of November 30, 2021, the country's installed renewable energy capacity stood at 150.54 GW, with solar, wind, small hydro, and bio-power contributing significantly. India has surpassed its commitment made at the COP 21 Paris Summit by achieving over 40 percent of its installed power capacity from non-fossil fuels, almost a decade ahead of schedule.
Furthermore, India's updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) highlight its commitment to achieving more than 50 percent of its installed power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. The country is actively pursuing renewable energy targets, with transmission plans in place and bids finalized for renewable energy capacity expansion.
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