THDC aims 2331 MW capacity boost

The company has set an ambitious target of increasing its installed capacity by 2331 MW through the commissioning of key projects, namely, 1000 MW Tehri PSP, 1320 MW Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant, and 11 MW Floating Solar in Khurja STPP.

THDC India Limited is spearheading advancements in the energy sector with innovative technologies and strategic expansions. As the company targets significant growth this fiscal year, it addresses key challenges while embracing renewable energy, digitalisation, and sustainable practices, aligning with national goals for a resilient and diversified energy future. 

Pumped storage projects crucial for managing supply-demand mismatches

The Government of India’s forthcoming Pumped Storage Policy is expected to be a significant catalyst in advancing the hydropower sector, particularly in the context of the Viksit Bharat vision. This policy will enable the efficient integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind with hydropower, enhancing grid stability and reliability. Pumped storage projects, which function as large-scale energy storage systems, are crucial for managing supply-demand mismatches and ensuring a consistent power supply. THDC India Ltd. sees this policy as a key enabler in meeting our national energy security goals and contributing to a more resilient and sustainable energy future.

Recent technological advancements 

THDC India Limited has adopted innovative technologies and capacity-building initiatives to enhance hydropower generation and contribute to a sustainable future. Recent technological advancements have significantly enhanced our operations and sustainability efforts. The PSU  developed an Inflow forecasting system at the Tehri Dam to optimise water management and power generation. Additionally, it implemented an early warning system to alert downstream populations and an early flood warning system for the Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project to ensure public safety. THDC has also installed a green hydrogen plant to promote clean energy and reduce the carbon footprint. The PSU’s 1320 MW Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant incorporates CO2 capture technology to minimise emissions. It has established EV charging stations to support the adoption of eco-friendly transportation.

THDC is setting up hydrokinetic turbine technology to harness natural energy in the natural downstream of the Koteshwar Hydroelectric Project. It also enhance cybersecurity and data protection measures to safeguard its operations and assets. Furthermore, the PSU has established centralised real-time remote monitoring for wind and solar projects at its corporate office in Rishikesh, allowing efficient oversight of the geographically dispersed wind and solar energy projects. THDC has adopted advanced business intelligence software to foster a data-driven decision-making culture, ensuring its strategic decisions are guided by comprehensive and real-time analytics. The document management system, initiated by the IT department, is now fully operational, significantly enhancing the organisational efficiency. The PSU is also developing a sophisticated decision support system for the integrated operation of the Tehri Power Complex, leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to predict crucial parameters such as inflow, reservoir levels, water discharge, and the MW and MWh outputs of its plants.

THDC has prioritised capacity building through several key initiatives alongside these technological advancements. The company introduced ‘E Gyan Sanchay’, a digital learning platform offering courses in engineering, finance, applied sciences, and management, which fosters a culture of continuous learning and unlocks employee potential. Additionally, it has rolled out customised training programmes in emerging technologies like AI, ML, and cyber security tailored to meet organisational needs and ensure the workforce is prepared for technological advancements. It also provides training on emerging technologies and renewable energy integration, hosting workshops and seminars on sustainable practices and environmental stewardship and collaborating with academic institutions and research organisations to drive innovation and knowledge sharing. Furthermore, the company’s leadership development programmes are designed to cultivate a future-ready workforce. These efforts reflect its commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies, developing a skilled workforce, and advancing India’s sustainable development goals.

Strategic expansion to boost India’s energy capacity 

THDC operates six power plants with a total generation capacity of 1,587 MW, comprising 1,424 MW of hydro, 113 MW of wind, and 50 MW of solar power. For the current fiscal year, THDC has set an ambitious target to increase its installed capacity by 2331 MW through the commissioning of key projects i.e. 1000 MW Tehri PSP, 1320 MW Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant and 11 MW Floating Solar in Khurja STPP. This expansion aligns with long-term strategy to diversify the energy portfolio and contribute significantly to India’s power capacity. Integrating thermal, hydro, and renewable energy sources enhances the role in the energy sector, contributes to greater energy security, and supports the government’s initiatives for a balanced and sustainable energy mix.

Overcoming challenges

THDC India Limited faces several significant challenges. Environmental and land clearance delays, particularly in the Himalayan region, lead to time and cost overruns. Geological surprises and the complex terrain further complicate project execution. The lengthy gestation period of hydro projects and the poor financial health of the hydro sector’s civil contractors add to the difficulties. Additionally, the deteriorating financial health of state DISCOMs, regulatory risks, and procedural constraints associated with public sector ownership add to the difficulties. natural calamities and rising contingent liabilities pose further risks.

To address these challenges, THDCIL has adopted a multi-faceted approach. The company leverages its technical expertise and experience in complex geology to minimise risks in project execution. THDCIL is expanding into renewable energy sources like solar and wind, including significant solar projects in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependency on traditional energy sources. Advanced project management tools, efficient operation and maintenance practices, and collaboration with government agencies are employed to expedite project timelines.

Additionally, THDCIL invests in digitalisation, AI, and new technologies to enhance operational efficiency. The company collaborates proactively with the community and government to expedite clearances and mitigate local opposition. The company also explores innovative opportunities such as pumped storage projects, floating solar, and green hydrogen to ensure long-term sustainability. Moreover, initiatives like carbon capture and green hydrogen projects align with THDCIL’s commitment to sustainable practices. By leveraging its strengths and seizing new opportunities, THDCIL aims to overcome these challenges and contribute to the country’s net-zero ambitions.

Contributed by:

Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited (THDCL)