India is intensifying its commitment to renewable energy, with pumped storage projects (PSPs) emerging as a pivotal solution to address the intermittency of solar and wind power.
A recent high-level brainstorming session in New Delhi underscored the strategic importance of PSPs in achieving the nation’s net-zero targets and ensuring grid stability. Organised at the SCOPE Complex, the event brought together key stakeholders, including officials from THDC India Ltd, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), NTPC, and representatives from CBIP and INCOLD. The discussions centred on the role of PSPs in bolstering India’s renewable energy infrastructure, especially as the country aims to integrate 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based electricity into the grid by 2030.
PSPs function by storing energy in the form of water at a higher elevation, which can be released to generate electricity during peak demand periods. This mechanism effectively acts as a large-scale battery, providing a reliable and efficient means of energy storage. According to the Central Electricity Authority, India has an estimated PSP potential of 96,529.6 MW, with the western region holding the highest potential due to its topographical features. In line with this potential, THDC India Ltd has signed significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with state governments to develop PSPs. In Maharashtra, THDC plans to harness 6,790 MW through six PSPs, involving an investment of over ₹33,600 crore. Similarly, in Rajasthan, two PSPs with a combined capacity of 1,600 MW are set to be developed, with an investment of ₹8,800 crore. These projects are expected to enhance grid stability, promote eco-tourism, and generate substantial employment opportunities during their construction phases.
NTPC, India’s largest electricity producer, is also making strides in this domain. The company has identified at least nine states, including Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, where it plans to build PSPs with a total installed capacity of 14,000 MW. These initiatives are part of NTPC’s broader strategy to provide round-the-clock power and support the nation’s renewable energy goals. The adoption of PSPs is further supported by policy measures aimed at expediting project approvals. The Central Electricity Authority has reduced the detailed project report approval time for PSPs from 90 days to 50 days, facilitating faster implementation. Additionally, off-river PSPs are gaining popularity due to their lower capital costs and operational efficiency.
As India continues its transition towards a sustainable energy future, PSPs are poised to play a crucial role. By providing a dependable and efficient energy storage solution, they address the challenges posed by renewable energy intermittency, ensuring a stable and resilient power grid.
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