Write a note on hydropower potentials, its development and significance for the economic development of Himachal Pradesh. (HPAS Mains Question Paper 2022 – GS 1, Q.28)
Power is the lifeblood of any economy. It is a crucial input for nearly all the goods and services of the modern world. Himachal Pradesh has traditional and renewable energy sources such as hydro, solar and fuel wood.
Himachal Pradesh has immense potential for hydropower as it is naturally blessed with abundant streams and rivers flowing down from towering mountains. Hydropower generation is the engine for the economic growth of the Himachal, as it makes a direct and significant contribution to the economy in terms of revenue generation, employment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life. Himachal Pradesh has an estimated Hydro Potential of 27,436 Megawatt (MW), of which about 24,567 MW has been assessed as harness-able. The Government has decided to forgo the rest to safeguard the environment, maintain ecological balance and protect social concerns.
Out of the total hydroelectric potential of the state, 10,519 MW has been harnessed so far, out of which only 7.6% is under the control of the Himachal Pradesh Government. At the same time, the rest is exploited by the Central Government. The state government has been giving the highest priority for its development since hydroelectric generation can meet the growing need for power for industry, agriculture and rural electrification. It is also the most significant source of income for the state as it provides electricity to other states.
Himachal Pradesh Hydropower Development:
- Hydropower development in Himachal Pradesh began in the early twentieth century, with the building of the Shanan Power Plant in Shimla in 1907. Unfortunately, large-scale hydropower production in the state did not begin until the 1970s. The existence of numerous big rivers, a wealth of water resources, and a supportive government policy have all encouraged the growth of hydropower in the state.
Importance for Himachal Pradesh’s Economic Development:
Himachal Pradesh’s hydroelectric industry has provided significant economic advantages to the state. Among the many benefits are:
1. Electricity production has increased significantly due to the construction of hydroelectric projects in the state. The state is now a net power exporter, with excess energy exported to neighbouring states. This has aided in satisfying the state’s energy needs while also generating considerable money for the state.
2. Job Creation: The growth of hydroelectric projects has resulted in the creation of job possibilities, notably in the state’s rural districts. Construction and operation of these projects have been employed in sectors such as power plant construction, maintenance, and function.
3. Revenue Generation: Hydropower project development has resulted in considerable income generating for the state. The state government generates cash by selling excess electricity to other states, leasing property to developers, and collecting taxes.
4. Clean Energy: Hydropower is a clean and renewable energy that produces no harmful pollutants or emissions. It is regarded as one of the most ecologically benign energy sources.
5. Reliability: Hydropower projects are dependable energy sources because they can generate electricity 24 hours a day, unlike other renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, which rely on weather conditions.
6. Energy Security: The construction of hydroelectric projects has aided the state’s energy security. Hydropower development allows the state to satisfy its energy demands while reducing its reliance on other energy sources.
Himachal Pradesh’s noteworthy hydroelectric projects include:
- Bhakra Nangal Dam: Located on the Sutlej River, the Bhakra Nangal Dam is one of India’s most excellent hydroelectric dams. The project, completed in 1963, has a total capacity of 1,325 MW.
- The Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Project is a run-of-the-river hydroelectric plant on the Satluj River in Kinnaur district. The project, which has a total capacity of 1,500 MW, was completed in 2003.
- Chamera Hydroelectric Project: The Chamera Hydroelectric Project has a total capacity of 540 MW and is situated in the Chamba region. The project, which is a run-of-the-river project, was commissioned in 1994.
Hydropower development has been critical to Himachal Pradesh’s economic prosperity. The state has enormous hydropower potential, and its development has resulted in considerable advantages in electricity production, employment, and income creation. The state has effectively harvested a significant percentage of its hydropower capacity, and there is still room for growth in the industry.
