Daily Hot Topic
Topic : Hydropower and Peak Power Demand in India
GS-3 Mains : Economy
Revision Notes
Context:
- Ministry of Power optimizes hydropower to meet rising peak demand (240 GW expected in summer).
Renewable Energy Scenario:
- India is 3rd largest renewable energy producer with 40% installed capacity from non-fossil fuels.
- Added 18 GW renewable capacity in FY24.
- Green push reduces emission intensity but challenges peak power with a renewables-heavy grid.
- Hydropower, coal, and gas are preferred for peak demand.
Hydropower Basics:
- Oldest and largest renewable energy source using flowing water.
- Currently generates more electricity than all other renewables combined.
- Expected to remain the leading renewable source till 2030s.
Hydro Project Classification (India):
- Micro: Up to 100 KW
- Mini: 101 KW – 2 MW
- Small: 2 MW – 25 MW
- Mega: 500 MW and above
Hydropower in India:
- 12.5% of power generation in 2022-23.
- 4745.6 MW pumped storage capacity in 2023.
- Potential concentrated in hilly states (Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Uttarakhand).
- Other potential states: Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala.
Strengths:
- Abundant water resources: Major rivers offer high generation potential.
- Small-scale projects: Suitable for hilly and remote areas with limited grid access.
- Storage capacity: Reservoirs enable energy storage for peak demand management.
- Long lifespan: Hydropower infrastructure can last for over 50 years with proper maintenance.
- Reliable and predictable: Provides consistent electricity unlike weather-dependent renewables.
- Clean energy: Minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
Challenges:
- Environmental impact: Large dams disrupt ecosystems, fish habitats, and local biodiversity.
- Social impacts: Construction displaces communities and disrupts livelihoods.
- High initial costs: Significant upfront investment is required for hydropower facilities.
- Climate change vulnerability: Reliant on consistent water flow, which can be affected by climate variations.
- Sedimentation: Dams trap sediment, reducing reservoir capacity and impacting efficiency.
- Maintenance challenges: Regular maintenance is crucial for safe and efficient operation.
Way Forward:
- Diversify power sources: Integrate other renewable technologies like solar and wind.
- Floating solar panels: Innovative approach being explored in China and Brazil.
- Pumped-storage hydro: Stores excess renewable energy for later use.