Source: SM
Context: India’s first Variable Speed Pumped Storage Plant (PSP) at Tehri, Uttarakhand, has commenced commercial operation with a 250 MW unit.
About India’s first Variable Speed Pumped Storage Plant:
- What is it?
-
- A 1,000 MW hydropower project designed to store energy by pumping water to an upper reservoir using surplus power, and releasing it to generate electricity when demand rises.
- Executed by: THDC India Limited (THDCIL), under the Ministry of Power
- Technology Partner: GE Vernova (provided power electronics and 250 MW variable-speed unit)
- Location: Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
- How the Tehri PSP Works?
-
- Pumping Phase: Surplus renewable energy (e.g., from solar or wind) is used to pump water from lower to upper reservoir.
- Energy Storage: The water in the upper reservoir stores potential energy like a “water battery”.
- Generation Phase: When electricity demand rises, water is released through turbines to generate power.
- Electricity Generation: Flowing water spins turbines, which activate generators to produce electricity.
- Variable Speed Operation: The plant can adjust turbine speed, allowing precise control of pumping and generation, improving efficiency and grid support.
- Grid Synchronization: The system maintains synchronization with grid frequency, ensuring stable power delivery.
- Key Features and Advantages:
- First Variable-Speed PSP in India: This is India’s first pumped storage project using variable-speed technology, marking a leap in hydropower innovation.
- 250 MW Initial Capacity: The project began with the commissioning of its first 250 MW unit, part of the larger 1,000 MW Tehri PSP.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Variable-speed turbines allow precise control over pumping and generation, enhancing overall system efficiency.
- Improved Grid Stability: It enables real-time power adjustments, supporting the stability of the grid amid renewable energy fluctuations.
- Flexible Operation: The plant can swiftly switch between pumping and generation, adapting to dynamic grid demands.
- Enables Energy Storage: Functions like a giant water battery, storing surplus energy for peak-hour power generation.
