The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has taken a significant stride towards a sustainable energy future by approving two additional Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) in Maharashtra. The 1,500 MW Bhavali PSP by JSW Energy Ltd. and the 1,000 MW Bhivpuri PSP by Tata Power Co. Ltd. were both given the green light, just 10 days after their Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) were submitted online.
These projects, supported by the Central Water Commission (CWC), Geological Survey of India (GSI), and Central Soil and Materials Research Station (CSMRS), are expected to be completed within 44 to 46 months, aiming for commissioning by 2028. Together, they will provide a storage capacity of over 15 GWh, crucial for addressing peak demand during non-solar hours and ensuring grid stability.
CEA’s goal is to approve at least two PSPs each month throughout the year, contingent on developers submitting complete DPRs. For the fiscal year 2024-25, the agency has set a target of approving 15 Hydro PSPs with a total capacity of 25,500 MW.
To streamline the approval process, CEA has introduced an online platform, “Jalvi-store,” which enhances transparency during the pre-DPR stage. Certain chapters have been eliminated to expedite the DPR approval process, and the guidelines now include a clear checklist. GSI and CWC have also formed multiple teams to speed up the clearance of design chapters for PSPs.
The involvement of private sector developers in these projects underscores the growing private sector participation in India’s energy transition. This collaboration between public and private sectors is driving progress towards the nation’s renewable energy goals. CEA is confident that these PSPs will significantly contribute to the reliability and sustainability of India’s electricity grid, fostering a robust and resilient energy future.
