Maharashtra Launches Its First Pumped Storage Hydropower Project Through Cooperative Sector

Maharashtra has initiated its first pumped storage hydropower project in the cooperative sector, investing Rs 1,008 crore with a 240 MW capacity. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced this at the MoU signing between the State Water Resources Department and TatyAsaheb Kore Warana Sahakari Navashakti Nirmiti Sanstha Ltd in Mumbai. The project is seen as essential for meeting future renewable energy demands.

The project, located at Tillari, will use the Kodali dam in Kolhapur as the upper reservoir and Kendre dam in Sindhudurg as the lower reservoir. Developed under a Public-Private Partnership model, it is expected to create around 300 jobs. Fadnavis emphasised the importance of pumped storage in regulating electricity generation according to demand, which is vital for long-term energy needs.

Renewable Energy Expansion

Fadnavis highlighted Maharashtra's geographical advantage due to the Western Ghats, which provide significant potential for such projects. He mentioned that the state has already signed MoUs for 16 projects with a combined capacity of 65,000 MW, aiming to increase this to 1 lakh MW. Additionally, Rs 1 lakh crore will be invested in power transmission infrastructure by 2035.

The Warana Group's involvement was praised by Fadnavis, who noted their significant contribution to the cooperative sector and now to renewable energy. "Just as the Warana Group has made a mark in the cooperative sector, it will now also contribute significantly to the renewable energy transition," he stated.

Economic and Environmental Impact

According to officials, the project will incur an annual reservoir usage fee of Rs 1.33 lakh per megawatt per reservoir. Water charges and land rent will be applied at current industrial rates. So far, agreements with 15 agencies have led to 45 projects with a total planned generation of 62,125 MW, attracting Rs 3.41 lakh crore in investment and creating over 96,000 jobs.

The state's Renewable Energy Policy for 2023 is considered progressive and supportive of the sector's growth. Vinay Kore expressed confidence in the policy's ability to aid rapid development. The Warana Group is dedicated to ensuring the project's success and swift execution.

Water Usage and Revenue

The state will need 14.62 TMC water for initial filling and two TMC annually for replenishment across all pumped storage projects. This water usage is projected to generate Rs 579.69 crore from initial use and Rs 80.52 crore annually in recurring revenue for Maharashtra's exchequer.

This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in Maharashtra, leveraging natural resources effectively while boosting economic growth through job creation and infrastructure development.

With inputs from PTI