Hydroelectric power plants generate electricity by harnessing the power of falling or moving water. In India, hydroelectric power plants are a major source of renewable energy and contribute significantly to the country's energy mix.
Hydroelectric Capacity in India (Estimated)
Note: The exact figures may vary slightly due to ongoing projects and updates.
| Region | Hydroelectric Capacity (GW) | Percentage of National Total |
|---|---|---|
| Northern India (Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana) | ~25 | ~46% |
| Southern India (Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana) | ~15 | ~28% |
| Eastern India (West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, Nagaland) | ~10 | ~19% |
| Western India (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh) | ~4 | ~7% |
Key Points:
- Northern Dominance: The northern region, especially the Himalayan states, has the highest concentration of hydroelectric capacity due to its abundant rivers and mountainous terrain.
- Southern Potential: The southern region, with its significant rainfall and river systems, also has a substantial hydroelectric capacity.
- Eastern Challenges: The eastern region faces challenges due to geographical constraints and environmental concerns.
- Western Development: The western region has seen steady growth in hydroelectric capacity, driven by projects in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat.
These power plants are typically located in areas where there is a significant amount of water flow, such as near rivers, dams, or reservoirs.
Here's a list of 15 hydroelectric power plants in India along with their location and capacity:
Tehri Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, Uttarakhand - 2,400 MW
Location: Bhagirathi River
Sardar Sarovar Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, Gujarat - 1,450 MW
Location: Narmada River
Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant, Maharashtra - 1,960 MW
Location: Koyna River
Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Power Plant, Himachal Pradesh - 1,500 MW
Location: Satluj River
Bhakra Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, Himachal Pradesh - 1,325 MW
Location: Sutlej River
Sharavathi Hydroelectric Power Plant, Karnataka - 1,035 MW
Location: Sharavathi River
Hirakud Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, Odisha - 307.5 MW
Location: Mahanadi River
Srisailam Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, Andhra Pradesh - 1,670 MW
Location: Krishna River
Rihand Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, Uttar Pradesh - 300 MW
Location: Rihand River
Indira Sagar Hydroelectric Power Plant, Madhya Pradesh - 1,000 MW
Location: Narmada River
Tungabhadra Hydroelectric Power Plant, Karnataka - 147.8 MW
Location: Tungabhadra River
Idukki Hydroelectric Power Plant, Kerala - 780 MW
Location: Periyar River
Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Power Plant, Arunachal Pradesh - 2,000 MW
Location: Subansiri River
Upper Sileru Hydroelectric Power Plant, Andhra Pradesh - 240 MW
Location: Sileru River
Manjira Hydroelectric Power Plant, Telangana - 5 MW
Location: Manjira River
Please note that the capacity of these power plants may vary depending on the current state of their operation.
Conclusion Largest hydroelectric power plants in India
The operation of a hydroelectric power plant involves the use of turbines and generators to convert the kinetic energy of falling or moving water into electrical energy.
Water is channeled through a penstock, which is a pipeline that carries water from the source to the turbines. As water flows through the turbines, it rotates the blades of the turbine, which drives a generator to produce electricity.
India has many hydroelectric power plants located across the country, with varying capacities and capabilities. The Tehri Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, for example, has a capacity of 2,400 MW and is one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in India. The Sardar Sarovar Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant is another major hydroelectric power plant in India with a capacity of 1,450 MW.
Hydroelectric power is a renewable and clean source of energy, and its use can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development. However, the construction of hydroelectric power plants can have significant environmental impacts, particularly on aquatic ecosystems and river habitats. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the environmental impacts of hydroelectric projects and take measures to mitigate any negative effects.
hydroelectric power plants are a significant source of renewable energy in India. They generate electricity by harnessing the power of falling or moving water and are located in areas where there is a significant amount of water flow. India has many hydroelectric power plants with varying capacities and capabilities, and they contribute significantly to the country's energy mix. While hydroelectric power is a clean and renewable source of energy, its construction can have significant environmental impacts, particularly on aquatic ecosystems and river habitats. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the environmental impacts of hydroelectric projects and take measures to mitigate any negative effects.