Himachal Govt has ventured into pumped storage power projects: CM
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said that the state government had decided to venture into the technologically advanced domain of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs), considered most reliable in balancing power supply from renewable sources such as solar and wind energy.
The Cabinet, in its recent meeting, approved the allotment of the first two such PSP projects, 1,630 MW Renukaji in Sirmaur district and 270 MW Thana Plaun in the Beas basin of Mandi district to the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd (HPPCL).
Grid stability
Himachal, being a hilly state, is ideally suited for pumped storage power projects. The topography offers immense potential for the construction of such projects, which will ensure grid stability. They are crucial for mitigating power shortages during high-demand periods. Sukhvinder Sukhu, Chief Minister
He said work on both projects is already underway, with two distinct powerhouses, one for regular power generation and another dedicated to the PSP. The Renukaji hydroelectric project will have a capacity of 40 MW, while the Thana Plaun project will generate 191 MW with separate turbines to be installed for the PSP system.
Sukhu said that under the Swaran Jayanti Policy 2021, the state prioritises the development of PSP projects. “Proposals for both identified and self-identified PSPs, along with pre-feasibility reports, will be invited every six months. These efforts align with the government’s commitment to enhancing revenue generation through hydro projects and positioning Himachal Pradesh as a prosperous state in the country,” Chief Minister said.
Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd (SJVNL) has identified four pumped storage projects with a total capacity of 2,570 MW, the BBMB has identified eight projects with a combined capacity of 13,103 MW, the NTPCL has identified two projects totaling 2,400 MW, the HPPCL has identified two projects with a capacity of 1,900 MW and the private sector has identified seven projects of 2,074 MW and
In the PSP system, water is pumped from a lower to a higher elevation reservoir using low-cost electricity, typically during off-peak hours. When electricity demand rises, the stored water is released back through turbines, converting potential energy into electricity, ensuring energy supply.
