Expansion and Impact of Hydroelectric Power in India's Renewable Energy Landscape

Summary:

India aims to elevate its hydroelectric capacity from 42 GW to 67 GW by 2031-32, with a robust pipeline of 15 GW in hydroelectric projects currently under construction. This significant growth trajectory is supported by optimistic monsoon forecasts from the IMD for FY 2024-25, which are expected to enhance water reservoir levels, thus benefiting hydroelectric power generation. The strategic emphasis on developing Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs), with 2.7 GW under construction and 50 GW planned, highlights the nation's commitment to enhancing grid stability and complementing the renewable energy portfolio.

Important Points:

• Hydroelectric Capacity Increase: India's hydroelectric capacity is projected to surge by over 50%, achieving 67 GW by 2031-32.
  

• Monsoon Predictions: Positive monsoon forecasts by the IMD for FY 2024-25 are expected to improve water reservoir levels, aiding hydroelectric generation.
  

• Pumped Storage Projects: The development of 2.7 GW of PSPs under construction and 50 GW planned underscores their importance for grid stability and as complements to renewable energy sources.
  

• Renewable Energy Commitments: Hydroelectric power is pivotal in India's renewable energy strategy, aligning with national and international goals to reduce emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources.

Additional Information to Remember:

• Hydroelectric power's strategic importance extends beyond energy generation to include water management, flood control, and irrigation, underscoring its multifunctional role in sustainable development.
  

• The emphasis on PSPs highlights their role in energy storage and grid stability, essential for integrating variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar.
  

• The sector's resilience and adaptability to climate change impacts underscore the importance of incorporating climate resilience in infrastructure planning and management strategies
  

India's leadership in renewable energy and its commitment to international climate agreements demonstrate its proactive approach to energy transition and climate diplomacy.

India's Updated Commitments to Climate Change

Following its fulfillment of commitments made during the Paris Agreement, India has updated its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in line with the discussions at Glasgow COP26 and further communicated these updates to the UNFCCC in August 2022. The key points of India's updated NDCs include:

• Promoting a sustainable way of living based on traditional values of conservation and moderation, notably through the initiation of a mass movement named ‘LIFE’ (Lifestyle for Environment) to address climate change.
  

• Committing to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030, relative to the 2005 levels.
  

• Aiming to achieve approximately 50% of its cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil-fuel-based energy resources by 2030. This goal is to be supported by technology transfer and access to low-cost international finance, including funds from the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

Key Words and Descriptions:

• Hydroelectric Power: Generation of electricity by harnessing water flow, crucial for renewable energy portfolios and offering benefits like storage, peaking power, and grid stability.
  

• Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs): Facilities that store and generate electricity by moving water between reservoirs at different elevations, acting as batteries for the energy grid.
  

• Monsoon Forecasts: Predictions about seasonal rainfall patterns, critical for planning in hydroelectric power generation and water resource management.
  

• Renewable Energy Transition: The shift from fossil fuel-based energy sources to renewable ones, such as hydro, solar, and wind, aiming for a sustainable and low-carbon future.
  

• Climate Resilience: The ability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to hazardous events, trends, or disturbances related to climate.
  

• Energy Grid Stability: The capability of an energy system to maintain service in the face of rapid changes or disruptions, ensuring reliable power supply.

Link to Article : Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)

Released On : 05 April 2024