HYDRO POWER IN INDIA

SUKANYA NAIRJSGP

INTRODUCTION

GLOBAL SCENARIOMost widely used form of renewable energy.Generates 16% of global electricity.China: largest hydro electric producer.

INDIAHas potential over 84000MWMajor contributors: Ganges, Brahmaputra & Indus (80%)Has harnessed 15%. 7% under stages of development

WORKING

WHY HYDRO POWER?• Renewable, clean and no fuel cost• Enhances reliability and stability of the power supply system: one of

the greatest obstacles to India’s development• Long life - The first hydro project completed in 1897 is still in

operation at Darjeeling.• hydro power installations lead to development of remote and

backward areas- education, medical, road communication• Small hydro plants have least environmental impacts

DRAWBACKS & CHALLENGES FACED:

SETTING UP PLANTS IN DIFFICULT AND REMOTE TERRAIN

DELAYS IN ACQUIRING LAND AND OBTAINING STATUTORY CLEARANCES

REHABILITITATION AND RESETTLEMENT

CREATES ECOLOGICAL IMBALANCE PREVENTS THE FREE MOVEMENT OF

FISH