Understanding Hydro Pumped Storage Projects
Roadmap to 100 GW of Hydro Pumped Storage Projects by 2035-36: Hydro Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) are large-scale energy storage systems that help balance electricity supply and demand. They operate using two reservoirs at different elevations, enabling energy storage during surplus power periods.
During times of excess renewable generation, especially from solar and wind, water is pumped from the lower reservoir to the upper one. When demand rises, stored water is released downward through turbines to generate electricity.
Static GK fact: Pumped storage hydropower is currently the most mature and widely used grid-scale energy storage technology globally.
Importance of PSPs in India’s Energy Transition
India’s power system is witnessing rapid growth in intermittent renewable energy capacity. This creates challenges in maintaining grid frequency, reliability, and peak demand management.
PSPs act like a natural battery, offering long-duration storage and quick ramp-up capability. They are essential for ensuring round-the-clock clean power availability as India moves towards higher renewable penetration.
The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has highlighted PSPs as a critical enabler of India’s clean energy roadmap, particularly for meeting future peak power requirements.
Current Capacity and Untapped Potential
India’s installed pumped storage capacity is around 7 GW, which is relatively low compared to the country’s growing power demand. However, the identified pumped storage potential stands at about 267 GW.
This potential includes 58 GW of on-stream projects, located on existing river systems, and 209 GW of off-stream projects, which use artificial reservoirs. Off-stream projects are gaining preference due to lower environmental and rehabilitation concerns.
Static GK Tip: India’s hydropower potential is unevenly distributed, with Western Ghats and Himalayan regions offering high feasibility for pumped storage development.
Types of Pumped Storage Projects
PSPs are broadly classified into open-loop and closed-loop systems. Open-loop projects are connected to natural rivers or lakes, making them dependent on seasonal water flows.
Closed-loop projects operate independently using artificial reservoirs, offering greater operational flexibility. These systems are increasingly preferred as they minimise ecological impact and water dependency.
Roadmap to Achieve 100 GW by 2035-36
The roadmap to reach 100 GW PSP capacity by 2035-36 focuses on fast-tracking project clearances, standardised project designs, and private sector participation.
Emphasis is being placed on off-stream PSPs, faster environmental approvals, and integrating PSPs with solar and wind parks. Policy support is also aimed at improving project viability through market-based ancillary services and capacity payments.
Static GK fact: Pumped storage plants typically have a life span exceeding 50 years, making them long-term strategic assets for power systems.
Strategic Significance for Energy Security
Scaling up PSPs will strengthen India’s energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based peaking power, and enhance grid resilience.
They will also support India’s commitments towards climate targets by enabling deeper renewable energy penetration without compromising system stability.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Roadmap to 100 GW of Hydro Pumped Storage Projects by 2035-36:
| Topic | Detail |
| Pumped Storage Function | Stores surplus electricity by pumping water to higher elevation reservoirs |
| Installed PSP Capacity in India | About 7 GW |
| Identified PSP Potential | Approximately 267 GW |
| On-stream PSP Potential | Around 58 GW |
| Off-stream PSP Potential | Around 209 GW |
| Target Capacity | 100 GW by 2035-36 |
| Key Advantage | Long-duration energy storage and grid stability |
| Preferred Project Type | Closed-loop pumped storage systems |
