Gujarat Records Surge in Hydropower Generation

Gandhinagar : As Gujarat continues to experience heavy monsoon rains, the state’s hydropower stations are witnessing a significant rise in electricity production. The continuous rainfall has filled major dams to capacity, leading to record-breaking power generation from key sites such as Sardar Sarovar, Ukai, and Kadana. In August 2024 alone, these dams collectively generated 1,067.3 million units (MU) of electricity, a significant jump from 308.7 MU in July 2024.

Sardar Sarovar Dam Leads in Power Generation

One of the standout contributors to this increase in hydropower is the Sardar Sarovar Dam, which has been crucial in addressing Gujarat’s water and energy needs. In August, the dam’s power stations—Sardar Sarovar (RBPH) and Sardar Sarovar (CHPH)—produced over 800 MU of electricity. The two plants collectively generated a total of 891 MU in August, making Sardar Sarovar the leading source of hydropower in the state during this period.

Power Generation Figures Across Major Dams

Other hydropower plants across Gujarat also saw considerable increases in output during the monsoon. At the Ukai Dam, there was no power generation in July, but by August, the dam produced 143.1 MU. The smaller Ukai Mini plant also saw a rise, from 0.6 MU in July to 1.9 MU in August. Similarly, the Kadana Dam’s power generation increased from 20.6 MU in July to 30.9 MU in August, reflecting the impact of the monsoon on the state’s hydropower capacity.

The table below highlights the significant rise in electricity production from Gujarat’s main hydropower plants in July and August 2024:

Long-Term Hydropower Growth in Gujarat

Over the past five years, Gujarat’s major dams have produced an average of 4,600 MU of electricity annually, highlighting the state’s increasing focus on renewable energy. In 2022-23, Gujarat’s total hydropower generation reached 6,170.456 MU, a 134% increase compared to the previous year’s 2,629.059 MU. For the current year, 2023-24, the total hydropower generation stands at 4,584.932 MU, demonstrating the continuing importance of hydropower in the state’s energy mix.

Gujarat’s Renewable Energy Leadership

Gujarat’s achievements in renewable energy, particularly in hydropower, are attributed to the foresight of former Chief Minister Shri Narendra Modi. During his tenure, Gujarat became the first state in India to establish a dedicated Climate Change Department, laying the groundwork for the state’s leadership in renewable energy. Today, Gujarat is a frontrunner in adopting sustainable energy practices and continues to implement long-term strategies to achieve its net-zero goals.

Policies introduced during Modi’s tenure have encouraged renewable energy projects across the state, fostering both solar and hydropower developments. The recent surge in hydropower generation reflects these efforts and underscores Gujarat’s position as a leader in sustainable energy practices.