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India's Energy Storage Race: Pumped Hydro Powers Future
4 Aug
Summary
- India needs 411 GWh energy storage by FY32, with pumped hydro providing 42%.
- Pumped storage uses reservoirs to store energy like a giant natural battery.
- Companies like Adani Green, Tata Power, and JSW Energy are expanding capacity.
India's rapid expansion in renewable energy capacity is shifting focus to energy storage solutions. Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) are gaining prominence as the nation anticipates a significant need for stored energy.
By FY32, India is projected to require 411 GWh of energy storage. PSPs are slated to contribute approximately 175 GWh, drawing an estimated ₹1.3 lakh crore in investments.
Pumped storage technology utilizes two reservoirs at different elevations to store electricity as gravitational potential energy. Surplus power pumps water to an upper reservoir; when demand rises, water is released to spin turbines and generate electricity.
India currently possesses 7.4 GW of operational pumped storage capacity, with an additional 16 GW under construction and over 8 GW approved. This sector is poised for substantial growth over the next decade.
Adani Green Energy aims for over 5 GW of PSP capacity by 2030, integrating it with battery storage. Their first 500 MW project in Andhra Pradesh is expected by FY27.
Tata Power is developing 2,800 MW across two projects in Maharashtra, with an investment of ₹13,000 crore. Their Bhivpuri project is targeted for commissioning in 2029.
JSW Energy plans to reach 40 GWh of total energy storage capacity by 2030, focusing on PSPs. They are actively executing two 1,500 MW projects set for completion by FY30 and FY31.
