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India plans to achieve 100 GW of pumped storage hydroelectric capacity by 2035-36, according to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). This goal supports the growing energy storage needs driven by renewable power expansion, with storage requirements expected to reach 62 GW by 2029-30 and 161 GW by 2034-35. The roadmap identifies state wise potential and promotes off stream closed-loop projects for grid resilience. Recent power sector discussions emphasized reform, energy transition, nuclear development, and distribution sector efficiency. Torrent Power and UGVCL topped utility ratings, highlighting sector performance improvements.
The Central Electricity Authority has released a detailed roadmap for India to reach 100 GW of pumped storage hydroelectric projects by 2035-36, aiming to strengthen energy storage infrastructure and support the country's growing renewable energy share. The plan was presented at a two-day Chintan Shivir, which concluded recently, where Union Power Minister Manohar Lal emphasized close coordination between the Centre, states, and industries for timely reform implementation. Advertisement
India's non-fossil fuel generation capacity is expected to grow to 500 GW by around 2030 and 701 GW by 2035. In line with this, energy storage needs are projected at 62 GW by 2029-30 and 161 GW by 2034-35. The CEA highlighted that long-duration storage will become critical beyond 2030, making pumped storage hydro essential for grid stability and clean energy integration.
The report assesses the current development status, identifies state-wise storage potential, and proposes a phased approach for capacity additions. It specifically recommends promoting off-stream closed-loop projects, which are less environmentally disruptive and can enhance grid resilience while supporting India's clean energy transition.
Alongside the pumped storage roadmap, the 14th Integrated Rating and Ranking Report for power distribution utilities was released. Out of 65 evaluated utilities, 31 received A+ or A ratings. Torrent Power Ahmadabad and Torrent Power Surat led overall rankings for FY2024-25, while Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (UGVCL) topped among state-owned distributors, reflecting notable improvements in sector performance.
The Shivir also focused on future policy frameworks, including discussions on the draft Electricity Amendment Bill 2026 to improve financial viability, competitiveness, and energy transition. The Draft Electricity Policy 2026 was reviewed to align with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals. Officials discussed accelerating nuclear power plant development, distribution sector reforms, and strategies to achieve 300 GWh of storage capacity by 2030, underscoring a multi-pronged approach to modernize the power sector.
Source PTI
FAQ
Q1. What is India's target for pumped storage hydro capacity?
India aims to achieve 100 GW of pumped storage hydroelectric capacity by 2035-36, according to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). This is part of the broader effort to strengthen energy storage infrastructure and support the country's growing renewable energy share.
Q2. Why is pumped storage hydro important for India?
Pumped storage hydro provides long-duration energy storage critical for grid stability, especially as renewable energy generation grows. By storing excess electricity during low-demand periods and releasing it during peak demand, it helps balance supply, manage variability in solar and wind power, and supports clean energy integration.
Q3. What are the projected energy storage needs in India?
With India's non-fossil fuel capacity expected to reach 500 GW by 2030 and 701 GW by 2035, energy storage requirements are projected at 62 GW by 2029-30 and 161 GW by 2034-35. Beyond 2030, long-duration storage like pumped hydro will be essential to maintain grid reliability.
Q4. What types of pumped storage projects are being promoted?
The roadmap emphasizes off-stream closed-loop pumped storage projects. These are environmentally less disruptive, do not rely on existing rivers, and can enhance grid resilience. Such projects can operate independently of natural water flows, making them suitable for large-scale renewable integration.
Q5. What phased approach is proposed for capacity addition?
The CEA report identifies state-wise potential for pumped storage projects and recommends a phased rollout of capacity. Priority is given to projects that strengthen inter-regional electricity transfer and support peak load management, ensuring gradual yet strategic development toward the 100 GW target.
Q6. What broader power sector initiatives were discussed alongside the roadmap?
At the Chintan Shivir, officials reviewed reforms, energy transition strategies, nuclear power plant development, and distribution sector efficiency. The Draft Electricity Amendment Bill 2026 and Draft National Electricity Policy 2026 were discussed to enhance financial viability, competitiveness, and alignment with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals.
Q7. How are distribution utilities performing in India?
The 14th Integrated Rating and Ranking Report evaluated 65 power distribution utilities. Thirty-one received A+ or A ratings. Torrent Power Ahmadabad and Torrent Power Surat led overall rankings for FY2024-25, while Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (UGVCL) topped among state-owned distributors, reflecting significant improvements in service and operational performance.
Q8. What interim targets are being set before 2035-36?
Officials highlighted a goal of achieving 300 GWh of storage capacity by 2030 as part of a multi-pronged approach to modernize the power sector, alongside expanding pumped hydro capacity to meet the projected surge in renewable energy generation.
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