In a significant move toward bolstering India’s energy storage infrastructure, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has granted techno-economic clearance to six hydro-pumped storage projects (PSPs), approving a capacity totalling approx. 7.5 GW during the financial year 2024–25.

The Ministry of Power announced that these clearances mark a major milestone in the promotion of PSPs, particularly the newer concept of off-stream, closed-loop systems. Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have been cleared for six projects including Upper Indravati (600 MW) in Odisha, Sharavathy (2,000 MW) in Karnataka, Bhivpuri (1,000 MW) and Bhavali (1,500 MW) in Maharashtra, MP-30 (1,920 MW) in Madhya Pradesh, and Chitravathi (500 MW) in Andhra Pradesh.

This progress reflects the collaborative efforts between developers and appraising bodies such as the Central Water Commission (CWC), Geological Survey of India (GSI), and Central Soil and Materials Research Station (CSMRS). 

Transparency in the appraisal process has been enhanced through the newly introduced Jalvi Store portal, facilitating smoother clearances. CEA now aims to clear a minimum of 13 PSPs amounting to about 22 GW during 2025-26. Most of these projects are expected to be commissioned within four years, with a target deadline of 2030. From 3.5 GW of operational PSP capacity, the Ministry emphasised the urgent need for accelerated development. 

“This year, two PSPs of around 3,000 MW will get commissioned and by 2032, we expect around 50 GW,” the Ministry added, projecting a robust expansion in energy storage capabilities that align with India’s broader renewable energy objectives.