Union Ministry of Power Holds Consultative Committee Meeting on Pumped Storage Projects

The Union Ministry of Power convened on 17 November a meeting of the Consultative Committee of the Members of Parliament at Pinnapuram, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh.

• The meeting that focussed on Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) was chaired by Shri Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power.

• Addressing the members, Shri Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power emphasized that PSPs can play a critical role by storing surplus green power and meeting electricity demand during non-solar hours.

Focus of the Meeting

• Discussion centered on Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) and their role in India’s energy transition.
• PSPs can store surplus green energy and supply electricity during non-solar hours, ensuring grid stability.

Pumped Storage Potential in India

• Total PSP potential identified: ~224 GW nationwide
• Commissioned PSPs: 10 projects, ~7 GW capacity
• Under Construction: 10 projects, ~12 GW capacity
• Planning & Development: 56 projects, ~78 GW capacity

About Pumped Storage Projects

• A hydropower system with two reservoirs at different elevations.
• Low-demand periods: Surplus electricity pumps water to the upper reservoir.
• High-demand periods: Water flows back to the lower reservoir through turbines to generate electricity.
• Acts as a large-scale energy storage system, crucial for integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind.