India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants | Oxford Student ATLAS: Maps & Tests - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Introduction
Hydropower, a clean and affordable energy source, has emerged as one of the
most promising solutions to address India's growing energy demands. With its
Page 2


India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Introduction
Hydropower, a clean and affordable energy source, has emerged as one of the
most promising solutions to address India's growing energy demands. With its
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
abundant water resources and favorable geographical features, India has
harnessed the power of hydroelectricity to establish numerous hydropower
plants across the country. In this article, we will explore the advantages,
disadvantages, and notable hydropower plants in India, showcasing the nation's
commitment to renewable energy.
Table: Notable Hydropower Plants in India
State River Hydropower Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Nagarjunasagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Srisailam Hydro Electric Power Plant
Andhra Pradesh, Orissa Machkund Machkund Hydro Electric Power Plant
Gujarat Narmada Sardar Sarovar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Baira Baira-Siul Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Bhakra Nangal Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Dehar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Chenab Salal Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Jhelum Uri Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jharkhand Subarnarekha Subarnarekha Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Karnataka Kalinadi Kalinadi Hydro Electric Power Plant
Karnataka Sharavathi Sharavathi Hydroelectric Power Plant
Karnataka Kaveri Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Kerala Periyar Idukki Hydro Electric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Sone Bansagar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Narmada Indira Sagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Madhya Pradesh, Uttar
Pradesh
Rihand Rihand Hydroelectric Power Plant
Maharashtra Koyna Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant
Manipur Leimtak Loktak Hydro Electric Power Plant
Page 3


India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Introduction
Hydropower, a clean and affordable energy source, has emerged as one of the
most promising solutions to address India's growing energy demands. With its
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
abundant water resources and favorable geographical features, India has
harnessed the power of hydroelectricity to establish numerous hydropower
plants across the country. In this article, we will explore the advantages,
disadvantages, and notable hydropower plants in India, showcasing the nation's
commitment to renewable energy.
Table: Notable Hydropower Plants in India
State River Hydropower Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Nagarjunasagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Srisailam Hydro Electric Power Plant
Andhra Pradesh, Orissa Machkund Machkund Hydro Electric Power Plant
Gujarat Narmada Sardar Sarovar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Baira Baira-Siul Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Bhakra Nangal Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Dehar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Chenab Salal Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Jhelum Uri Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jharkhand Subarnarekha Subarnarekha Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Karnataka Kalinadi Kalinadi Hydro Electric Power Plant
Karnataka Sharavathi Sharavathi Hydroelectric Power Plant
Karnataka Kaveri Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Kerala Periyar Idukki Hydro Electric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Sone Bansagar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Narmada Indira Sagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Madhya Pradesh, Uttar
Pradesh
Rihand Rihand Hydroelectric Power Plant
Maharashtra Koyna Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant
Manipur Leimtak Loktak Hydro Electric Power Plant
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Odisha Sileru Balimela Hydro Electric Power Plant
Odisha Mahanadi Hirakud Hydro Electric Power Plant
Sikkim Rangit Rangit Hydroelectric Power Plant
Sikkim Teesta Teesta Hydro Electric Power Plant
Uttarakhand Bhagirathi Tehri Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Baspa Baspa-II Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Satluj Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Pandoh Dam Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Ravi Chamera-I Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Ravi Chamera-II Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Pong Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Chenab Dulhasti Hydroelectric Power Plant
Harnessing the Power of Hydropower in India
Hydropower: A Sustainable Energy Solution:
Hydropower, also known as hydroelectricity, utilizes the gravitational force of
falling or moving water to generate power. It is a renewable energy source that
offers numerous advantages, making it an attractive option for India's energy
needs.
Advantages of Hydropower
1. Renewable and Non-Polluting: Hydropower relies on the water cycle,
ensuring a constant and sustainable source of energy without depleting
water resources. Moreover, it does not emit greenhouse gases or other
harmful pollutants, contributing to a cleaner environment.
2. Cost-Effective: Compared to conventional power sources like coal and gas-
fired plants, hydropower is more economical in the long run. Once the
initial investment is made, there are minimal recurring costs, resulting in
stable energy prices.
3. Reliability and Grid Stability: Hydropower plants offer a high level of
reliability, as they are not dependent on external fuel supplies. They can
quickly start and stop operations, making them ideal for meeting peak load
Page 4


India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Introduction
Hydropower, a clean and affordable energy source, has emerged as one of the
most promising solutions to address India's growing energy demands. With its
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
abundant water resources and favorable geographical features, India has
harnessed the power of hydroelectricity to establish numerous hydropower
plants across the country. In this article, we will explore the advantages,
disadvantages, and notable hydropower plants in India, showcasing the nation's
commitment to renewable energy.
Table: Notable Hydropower Plants in India
State River Hydropower Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Nagarjunasagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Srisailam Hydro Electric Power Plant
Andhra Pradesh, Orissa Machkund Machkund Hydro Electric Power Plant
Gujarat Narmada Sardar Sarovar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Baira Baira-Siul Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Bhakra Nangal Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Dehar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Chenab Salal Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Jhelum Uri Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jharkhand Subarnarekha Subarnarekha Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Karnataka Kalinadi Kalinadi Hydro Electric Power Plant
Karnataka Sharavathi Sharavathi Hydroelectric Power Plant
Karnataka Kaveri Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Kerala Periyar Idukki Hydro Electric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Sone Bansagar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Narmada Indira Sagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Madhya Pradesh, Uttar
Pradesh
Rihand Rihand Hydroelectric Power Plant
Maharashtra Koyna Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant
Manipur Leimtak Loktak Hydro Electric Power Plant
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Odisha Sileru Balimela Hydro Electric Power Plant
Odisha Mahanadi Hirakud Hydro Electric Power Plant
Sikkim Rangit Rangit Hydroelectric Power Plant
Sikkim Teesta Teesta Hydro Electric Power Plant
Uttarakhand Bhagirathi Tehri Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Baspa Baspa-II Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Satluj Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Pandoh Dam Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Ravi Chamera-I Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Ravi Chamera-II Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Pong Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Chenab Dulhasti Hydroelectric Power Plant
Harnessing the Power of Hydropower in India
Hydropower: A Sustainable Energy Solution:
Hydropower, also known as hydroelectricity, utilizes the gravitational force of
falling or moving water to generate power. It is a renewable energy source that
offers numerous advantages, making it an attractive option for India's energy
needs.
Advantages of Hydropower
1. Renewable and Non-Polluting: Hydropower relies on the water cycle,
ensuring a constant and sustainable source of energy without depleting
water resources. Moreover, it does not emit greenhouse gases or other
harmful pollutants, contributing to a cleaner environment.
2. Cost-Effective: Compared to conventional power sources like coal and gas-
fired plants, hydropower is more economical in the long run. Once the
initial investment is made, there are minimal recurring costs, resulting in
stable energy prices.
3. Reliability and Grid Stability: Hydropower plants offer a high level of
reliability, as they are not dependent on external fuel supplies. They can
quickly start and stop operations, making them ideal for meeting peak load
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
demands. The seasonal load curves align well with hydropower generation
patterns, allowing for optimal utilization of capacity.
Notable Hydropower Plants in India
India's Impressive Hydropower Infrastructure:
India boasts an extensive network of hydropower plants, with a substantial
installed capacity and ongoing construction projects. Here are some notable
hydropower plants across various states:
1. Nagarjunasagar Hydro Electric Power Plant, Andhra Pradesh: Situated on
the Krishna River, this plant harnesses the immense power of water to
generate electricity, contributing significantly to the state's energy needs.
2. Bhakra Nangal Hydroelectric Power Plant, Himachal Pradesh: Located on
the Sutlej River, this iconic plant has played a pivotal role in India's
development by providing a consistent and reliable source of energy.
3. Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant, Maharashtra: With an impressive
capacity of 1,960 MW, this plant stands as the largest completed
hydroelectric power project in India. It has been instrumental in supporting
the energy requirements of Maharashtra.
4. Tehri Hydro Electric Power Plant, Uttarakhand: Situated on the Bhagirathi
River, this hydropower plant is known for its towering structure, making it
India's tallest and a symbol of the nation's commitment to renewable
energy.
Working Mechanism of Hydropower Plants
The Inner Workings of a Hydropower Plant:
A contemporary hydropower plant comprises various components that work
harmoniously to generate electricity. Let's explore the fundamental elements of a
hydropower plant:
1. Dam and Reservoir: The dam acts as a barrier, creating a reservoir that
stores water. It enables controlled water flow and regulates the supply to
the turbines while also serving as a decanter, allowing sediments to settle.
2. Intake and Penstock: The intake, equipped with filtration systems, ensures
that the water reaching the turbines is free from harmful particulates. The
penstock carries water from the reservoir to the turbines.
Page 5


India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Introduction
Hydropower, a clean and affordable energy source, has emerged as one of the
most promising solutions to address India's growing energy demands. With its
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
abundant water resources and favorable geographical features, India has
harnessed the power of hydroelectricity to establish numerous hydropower
plants across the country. In this article, we will explore the advantages,
disadvantages, and notable hydropower plants in India, showcasing the nation's
commitment to renewable energy.
Table: Notable Hydropower Plants in India
State River Hydropower Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Nagarjunasagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Andhra Pradesh Krishna Srisailam Hydro Electric Power Plant
Andhra Pradesh, Orissa Machkund Machkund Hydro Electric Power Plant
Gujarat Narmada Sardar Sarovar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Baira Baira-Siul Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Bhakra Nangal Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Dehar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Sutlej Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Chenab Salal Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Jhelum Uri Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jharkhand Subarnarekha Subarnarekha Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Karnataka Kalinadi Kalinadi Hydro Electric Power Plant
Karnataka Sharavathi Sharavathi Hydroelectric Power Plant
Karnataka Kaveri Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Power
Plant
Kerala Periyar Idukki Hydro Electric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Sone Bansagar Hydroelectric Power Plant
Madhya Pradesh Narmada Indira Sagar Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Madhya Pradesh, Uttar
Pradesh
Rihand Rihand Hydroelectric Power Plant
Maharashtra Koyna Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant
Manipur Leimtak Loktak Hydro Electric Power Plant
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
Odisha Sileru Balimela Hydro Electric Power Plant
Odisha Mahanadi Hirakud Hydro Electric Power Plant
Sikkim Rangit Rangit Hydroelectric Power Plant
Sikkim Teesta Teesta Hydro Electric Power Plant
Uttarakhand Bhagirathi Tehri Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Baspa Baspa-II Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Satluj Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Pandoh Dam Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Ravi Chamera-I Hydro Electric Power Plant
Himachal Pradesh Ravi Chamera-II Hydro Electric Power
Plant
Himachal Pradesh Beas Pong Hydro Electric Power Plant
Jammu and Kashmir Chenab Dulhasti Hydroelectric Power Plant
Harnessing the Power of Hydropower in India
Hydropower: A Sustainable Energy Solution:
Hydropower, also known as hydroelectricity, utilizes the gravitational force of
falling or moving water to generate power. It is a renewable energy source that
offers numerous advantages, making it an attractive option for India's energy
needs.
Advantages of Hydropower
1. Renewable and Non-Polluting: Hydropower relies on the water cycle,
ensuring a constant and sustainable source of energy without depleting
water resources. Moreover, it does not emit greenhouse gases or other
harmful pollutants, contributing to a cleaner environment.
2. Cost-Effective: Compared to conventional power sources like coal and gas-
fired plants, hydropower is more economical in the long run. Once the
initial investment is made, there are minimal recurring costs, resulting in
stable energy prices.
3. Reliability and Grid Stability: Hydropower plants offer a high level of
reliability, as they are not dependent on external fuel supplies. They can
quickly start and stop operations, making them ideal for meeting peak load
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
demands. The seasonal load curves align well with hydropower generation
patterns, allowing for optimal utilization of capacity.
Notable Hydropower Plants in India
India's Impressive Hydropower Infrastructure:
India boasts an extensive network of hydropower plants, with a substantial
installed capacity and ongoing construction projects. Here are some notable
hydropower plants across various states:
1. Nagarjunasagar Hydro Electric Power Plant, Andhra Pradesh: Situated on
the Krishna River, this plant harnesses the immense power of water to
generate electricity, contributing significantly to the state's energy needs.
2. Bhakra Nangal Hydroelectric Power Plant, Himachal Pradesh: Located on
the Sutlej River, this iconic plant has played a pivotal role in India's
development by providing a consistent and reliable source of energy.
3. Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant, Maharashtra: With an impressive
capacity of 1,960 MW, this plant stands as the largest completed
hydroelectric power project in India. It has been instrumental in supporting
the energy requirements of Maharashtra.
4. Tehri Hydro Electric Power Plant, Uttarakhand: Situated on the Bhagirathi
River, this hydropower plant is known for its towering structure, making it
India's tallest and a symbol of the nation's commitment to renewable
energy.
Working Mechanism of Hydropower Plants
The Inner Workings of a Hydropower Plant:
A contemporary hydropower plant comprises various components that work
harmoniously to generate electricity. Let's explore the fundamental elements of a
hydropower plant:
1. Dam and Reservoir: The dam acts as a barrier, creating a reservoir that
stores water. It enables controlled water flow and regulates the supply to
the turbines while also serving as a decanter, allowing sediments to settle.
2. Intake and Penstock: The intake, equipped with filtration systems, ensures
that the water reaching the turbines is free from harmful particulates. The
penstock carries water from the reservoir to the turbines.
India's Major Hydroelectric Power Plants
3. Turbines and Generators: Hydropower plants utilize different types of
turbines, such as Francis, Kaplan, and Pelton turbines, to convert the kinetic
energy of water into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then
transformed into electricity by generators connected to the turbines.
4. Supporting Systems: Hydropower plants incorporate various systems like
governors, brakes, and gate controls to regulate water flow, reduce wear
and tear, and maintain operational efficiency. Cooling systems are also
implemented to prevent overheating in electrical and mechanical
components.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydropower
Advantages of Hydropower:
1. Sustainability: Hydropower conserves water resources, as it returns the
water to the source after generating electricity. This ensures the availability
of water for other purposes like irrigation and domestic use.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: Once the initial infrastructure is in place, hydropower
plants have low operational costs, leading to stable and affordable
electricity prices for consumers.
3. Grid Stability: Hydropower's ability to start and stop quickly makes it an
excellent choice for meeting peak electricity demands, contributing to a
more stable power grid.
Disadvantages of Hydropower:
1. Capital Intensive: The construction of hydropower plants requires
substantial investment. Additionally, land acquisition and resettlement
processes can be complex and time-consuming.
2. Environmental Impact: Large-scale hydropower projects may lead to
deforestation and submergence of land, causing habitat loss and
displacement of communities. These projects can also impact aquatic
ecosystems and alter the natural flow of rivers.
3. Project Delays: Legal disputes, environmental concerns, and financial
constraints often result in delays in the construction of hydropower plants.
This can hinder the growth of India's hydropower sector.
Conclusion
Hydropower plants in India have emerged as vital contributors to the nation's
energy landscape. They harness the power of water to generate clean and