Hydro Power Current Scenario in India
Risks, Impediments, Opportunities
Sandeep Upadhyay, MD & CEO - Centrum Infrastructure Advisory Ltd
The first Hydel Power Station (HPS) implemented in India was Sidrapong one in Darjeeling (West Bengal) completed in 1897 and is still in operation. Hydropower technology is well-proven with efficiency rates which could go upto 90% depending on the design power. The depreciated Hydro Power Stations i.e. Pong on Beas River and Bhakra on Satluj River are currently selling power @ 18 and 28 paise/unit respectively. However, the advantages of longevity and cost of generation doesn't reflect in trends in India's energy mix which is dominated by thermal power (70% share). Hydro, with an installed capacity of 42,783 MW, has a share of around 14% in 2016 coming down from 46% in 1966. This clearly indicates that there is an over-dependence on thermal plants vis-à-vis hydro assets.
Sandeep Upadhyay, MD & CEO - Centrum Infrastructure Advisory Ltd
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NBM&CW July 2016