Hydropower has long been a cornerstone of India's energy landscape, dating back to the commissioning of the first hydropower plant in Darjeeling in 1897. Today, as the country seeks to decarbonize its energy sector, hydropower continues to play a crucial role.

 

Current Scenario

As of 2023, India boasts an installed hydropower capacity of approximately 46.5 GW, making it the fifth largest in the world. The majority of this capacity comes from large hydropower plants, while small and micro hydropower plants contribute around 4.6 GW. The significant hydropower projects include the 1,500 MW Nathpa Jhakri project and the 1,200 MW Tehri Dam.

Geographic Suitability

India's hydropower potential is vast, estimated at around 148 GW. This potential is primarily concentrated in the Himalayan states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Arunachal Pradesh, as well as in the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats. The geographical and geological conditions in these regions, characterized by significant river systems and suitable topography, provide ideal conditions for both large and small hydropower projects.

Benefits of Hydropower in India

• Renewable and Low-cost: Hydropower is a renewable energy source that generates electricity at a relatively low cost, contributing to the reduction of India's carbon footprint.
• High Capacity Factor: Indian hydropower plants typically achieve a capacity factor of around 45-50%, providing reliable and consistent power.
• Energy Security: Hydropower helps diversify India’s energy mix, reducing dependency on coal and fossil fuels. 

Challenges and Environmental Concerns

• Environmental Impact: Large hydropower projects in India often face opposition due to their environmental and social impacts, including displacement of communities and wildlife habitat destruction. The controversial Narmada Dam project exemplifies these challenges, having faced decades of opposition from environmentalists and social activists.
• Climate Change: Variability in water flow due to climate change poses a risk to the reliability of hydropower generation.

Key Technology

• Modular Hydropower Systems: Innovations in modular hydropower systems allow for easier installation and lower environmental impact. These systems are particularly suitable for India's varied geographical conditions.
• Run-of-River Projects: Run-of-river hydro projects, which generate power without large reservoirs, are gaining traction in India. These projects have a lower environmental footprint and are quicker to implement. The 330 MW Kishanganga Hydroelectric Plant in Jammu and Kashmir is a notable example.
• Hydrokinetic Technology: India's river systems offer potential for hydrokinetic power generation, which harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water. This technology is still in the nascent stage but holds promise for the future.
• Digital Technologies: Implementing digital technologies for monitoring and maintenance is improving the operational efficiency of India's hydropower plants. AI and IoT-based solutions are being tested to optimize performance and predict maintenance needs.
• Small and Micro Hydropower: The government is promoting small and micro hydropower projects, especially in remote and hilly areas. These projects, such as the 5 MW Rongli project in Sikkim, provide localized energy solutions with minimal environmental impact.
• Tidal and Wave Energy: While still experimental, India's long coastline presents opportunities for tidal and wave energy projects. The Gujarat coast has seen pilot projects in tidal energy, with further research and development underway.

Case Studies

• Bhakra-Nangal Project: One of India's earliest and largest hydropower projects, the Bhakra-Nangal project has a capacity of 1,325 MW and provides irrigation benefits, showcasing the multipurpose utility of hydropower projects.
• Sikkim’s Hydropower Development: Sikkim is rapidly developing its hydropower potential with projects like the 510 MW Teesta V and the planned 1,200 MW Teesta III, reflecting the state’s strategic focus on harnessing its hydropower potential for economic development.