The term hydropower plant is kinda self-explanatory, like these are the plants where electricity is made or generated through the water flow force, you know? And you’ll be a bit surprised to know that we have so many of these hydropower plants in India, like 197 of them generating electricity for the rising demand of the people of the country. Today though, we are here just to take a good look at which are the top 10 major hydro power plants in India. We’ll go over a bunch of different things about these power plants, and you’ll come to realize how important these top ones are. So, here we go.
1. Tehri Hydroelectric Complex – Uttarakhand
Did you know that when it comes to engineering wonders in India, the Tehri Hydroelectric Complex undeniably captures the attention? But why exactly? Well, just so you know, it has a capacity of 2,400 MW, which makes it not only the largest hydroelectric power plant in India but also the tallest dam in the country, with a height of 260.5 meters. Sure enough, being started in the year 2006, it gives power to states like Uttar Pradesh and Haryana and provides irrigation and drinking water as well. Being run by THDC, currently, it is part of NTPC Limited, India’s pumped storage system is a valuable asset to utilize in balancing India’s energy needs, did you know that already?
2. Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project – Arunachal Pradesh & Assam
Next on the list, are you aware that this hydro plant is going to be the largest run-of-the-river hydroelectric plant in India? Yes, that’s how it is! The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, which is to be started in 2024, will contribute 2,000 MW to India’s renewable energy capacity, which is pretty huge if you think about it for a sec. NHPC Limited manages this project that will help ease the power shortages in the area while simultaneously proving that India is no stranger to renewables.
3. Koyna Hydroelectric Project – Maharashtra
Sure enough, the Koyna Hydroelectric Project is often regarded as the backbone of Maharashtra’s power grid, and its underground powerhouse is a defining feature that sets it apart. As per the technical details of it all, well, this project, which is installed in the Western Ghats, has a capacity of 1,960 MW, and it has been functioning since 1964. Its phased construction and the decades of reliability it has provided so far make it a pillar of clean energy in Western India, you know?
4. Srisailam Dam – Andhra Pradesh
Next on the list, the Srisailam Dam, which is capable of providing electricity at 1,670 MW of capacity, is not only seen as a source of power but also as a means of irrigation and flood control. Without a single doubt, inside the beautiful Nallamala Hills, this dam is managed by APGENCO and its use has helped power the state of Andhra Pradesh since 1981. One thing we can say for sure is that the dam’s extensive storage area from the reservoir is an essential resource for both agriculture and energy in the region.
5. Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station – Himachal Pradesh
Then, the Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station is noteworthy due to the fact that it is the largest underground hydro plant in India, you know? Like, this 1,530 MW facility, which has been in operation since 2004, draws its water from the Satluj River making use of the best technologies available, including the country’s latest desilting chambers, which is the best bit about it all. All in all, yes, SJVN is the company that runs it and it plays an important role in India’s northern energy supply.
6. Sardar Sarovar Hydro Power Station – Gujarat
Did you know that Sardar Sarovar Dam on the River Narmada which is believed to be as old as the river is the famous Sardar Sarovar Dam? And sure enough, this is a source of energy and the Sardar Sarovar Dam is the top in terms of several uses. Since 2006 with a facility for the Narmada River of 1,450 MW, it has been in place not only getting all the power from the Narmada River but also sending water to four states in the country.
7. Bhakra Nangal Hydro Power Station – Punjab & Himachal Pradesh
Bhakra Nangal Hydro Power Station has been in operation since 1963, and it is where hydropower development started in India in a big way, how’s that though? Well, just so you know, it was installed in the raw of 1,325 MW. The Gobind Sagar reservoir is bigger than anything in India, and electricity, irrigation, and flood control supplies are also offered.
8. Tala Hydroelectric Plant – Bhutan
Sure enough, not only is India’s energy landscape increased by domestic plants, but also, the Tala Hydroelectric Plant in Bhutan is a perfect example of it. This plant has been operational since 2006 with a capacity rated at 1,020 MW and supplies most of the electricity to India, which is quite significant.
9. Karcham Wangtoo Hydroelectric Plant – Himachal Pradesh
2nd last on the list, you see, the Karcham Wangtoo Hydroelectric Plant was inaugurated in 2011 and it is a newcomer among power plants, but the capacity of 1,000 MW makes it an influential one, you know? As far as other details goes, well, it is located on the Satluj River and is owned and operated by Jaypee Karcham Hydro Corporation Limited, which is one of the main energy producers in the northern grid.
10. Indira Sagar Hydro Power Station – Madhya Pradesh
Last on the list, the Indira Sagar Hydro Power Station, named after one of the most important leaders of India, is the main power plant in the central part of India. The main feature of this above 1,000 MW facility is not just power generation but also an extensive reservoir that the local farmers, through irrigation, can use, you know?
Conclusion
There you have it. These are probably the major contributors to all the energy aka electricity we generate here in India through all the hydropower plants. Hope, this post was kinda intriguing and a bit helpful for you with all that data and facts.