Table of Contents
India’s Pumped Storage Push: 51 GW by 2032 Led by Greenko, Adani, JSW
- India aims to increase its pumped storage hydropower (PSH) capacity to 51 GW by the year 2032.
- This expansion is essential for integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
- Pumped storage will help maintain grid stability by storing and releasing energy as needed.
- Major companies leading this initiative include Greenko, Adani Green Energy, and JSW Energy.
India’s Pumped Storage Ambitions
- Target Capacity: India plans to develop 38 PSH projects totaling 50,670 MW by 2032, aiming to balance the intermittency of renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
- Current Status: As of now, India has an installed PSH capacity of approximately 4.9 GW, with several projects under construction or in the planning stages.
- Estimated Potential: The Central Electricity Authority estimates a potential of 108 GW for PSH in India, indicating significant room for growth.
Key Players and Projects
Greenko Group
- Pinnapuram Project: A 5,200 MW PSH project in Andhra Pradesh, under construction since May 2022.
- Neemuch Project: A 1,440 MW PSH project in Madhya Pradesh, with plans to expand to 1,920 MW, making it India’s largest.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with Adani Group to provide 1 GW of round-the-clock renewable energy using 6 GWh of PSH capacity.
Adani Green Energy
- Approved Projects: Four PSH projects in Andhra Pradesh totaling 3,700 MW, including:
- Kurukutti (1,200 MW)
- Karrivalasa (1,000 MW)
- Gandikota (1,000 MW)
- Chitravathi (500 MW)
- Additional Plans: Projects in Maharashtra, such as Tarali (1,500 MW) and Malshej Ghat (1,500 MW), are in the planning stages.
JSW Energy
- Karnataka Projects: Won 300 MW in Karnataka’s 1 GW PSH tender, while Greenko secured the remaining 700 MW.
- Upcoming Projects: Planning PSH projects in Uttar Pradesh, including Kandhaura (1,680 MW) and UP01 (3,660 MW).
Economic and Strategic Significance
- Grid Stability: PSH projects provide essential grid balancing services, storing excess energy during low demand and releasing it during peak demand.
- Renewable Integration: Facilitates the integration of intermittent renewable sources, ensuring a reliable power supply.
- Economic Viability: PSH projects offer higher internal rates of return compared to traditional solar or wind projects, making them attractive investments.
Challenges and Considerations
- Environmental Impact: Large-scale PSH projects can have significant ecological and social impacts, requiring careful planning and mitigation strategies.
- Regulatory Framework: Streamlining approvals and providing clear policies are essential to accelerate project development.
- Financing: Securing adequate funding and managing costs are critical for the successful implementation of these projects.
Important questions
- What is the goal for India’s pumped storage hydropower capacity by 2032?
- Which companies are leading India’s pumped storage development?
- What is the estimated PSH potential in India according to the Central Electricity Authority?
- What are some major PSH projects currently under development by Greenko and Adani?
- What obstacles might hinder the effective implementation of pumped storage projects in India?
Conclusion
India’s bold plan to reach 51 GW of pumped storage hydropower by 2032 is a key strategy to strengthen grid stability and advance its renewable energy objectives. With leading companies like Greenko, Adani, and JSW driving major projects, the country is positioning itself for a cleaner and more resilient energy future, despite facing environmental, regulatory, and financial hurdles.
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