Small Hydro InIndia

Small and mini hydel projects have the potential to provide energy in remote and hilly areas where extension of grid system is un-economical. These projects are economically viable, environmentally benign and need a relatively short time for implementation and are not generally affected by the constraints associated with large hydro projects. Realizing this fact, Government of India is encouraging development of small and mini hydropower projects in the country.

Ministry of Non-conventional Energy Sources (MNES) has been responsible for small and mini hydro projects up to 3 MW station capacity since 1989. The subject of small hydro between 3-25 MW has been assigned to MNES from November, 1999. In order to promote activities in this sector and to exploit SHP potential in the country in a systematic manner, the Ministry is adopting a multi-pronged strategy. Various physical and financial incentives are being extended to develop this sector. The focus of the SHP programme is now towards commercialization through private sector participation.

India has 420 small hydropower projects up to 25 MW station capacity with an aggregate capacity of over 1423 MW. These projects are spread throughout the country in hilly regions as well as on canal drops. Over 187 projects in this range with aggregate capacity of 521 MW are under construction.

The small hydropower projects are developed in the potential regions by the State Electricity Boards/ State Agencies responsible for SHP development. Most of the SHP projects are grid connected. However, there are some projects, which are decentralized and are managed by local community/ NGOs. The Ministries has also installed 41 portable micro hydel sets of 5-15 KW in remote and isolated locations. Recently, a programme on development and up-gradation of water mills has been started to directly use mechanical power for different applications. The Ministry is also implementing an UNDP-GEF Hilly Hydro Project in 13 States of Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan Region.

THERE ARE OVER 419 SMALL HYDRO PROJECTS
AGGREGATING 1406 MW IN INDIA.