Question : Investment in Hydroelectric Power Generation

(a) whether the Government proposes to bring Hydroelectric Power under the ambit of Renewable Energy, if so, the details thereof;
(b) weather India has only been able to harness a small percentage of its Hydroelectric potential, if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;
(c) whether bringing Hydroelectric Power under the ambit of Renewable Energy is likely to improve harnessing of hydroelectric power to desirable levels, if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether the Government has any policy regarding investment in Hydro-electric Power Generation in the country;
(e) if so, the details thereof; and
(f) whether the Government has received any proposal in this regard, if so, the details and the present status thereof?

(a): Hydro Power projects upto 25MW station capacity are considered under Renewable Energy in India.
(b): The identified potential of Hydro Power above 25MW in the country is 145320MW, against which projects of aggregate capacity 42,663.42MW have been installed in the country as on 31/01/2016.
The identified potential of Small Hydro Power (SHP) in the country is 19749.44MW. SHP projects of aggregate capacity 4187.655MW have been installed in the country as on 31/01/2016.
(c): Hydroelectric power included under Renewable Energy qualifies for Renewable Energy Purchase Obligation (RPO). Therefore the portion of hydroelectric power which is under Renewable Energy category will be attractive for DISCOM’s having shortfall in RPO achieved.
(d), (e)&(f): Government has Hydro Power Policy 2008 covering Hydro Power over 25MW.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy(MNRE) has announced scheme for development of SHP Projects upto 25 MW station capacity. Allotment of SHP projects is under the purview of State Governments. 24 States have announced policies to invite private sector to set up SHP’s in their respective States. The MNRE has been providing financial support/subsidy for the following activities to develop SHP sector:-
• Research and development, capacity building
• Resource Assessment, Detailed Survey and Investigation, DPR Preparation and Perspective Plans for States
• Capital Subsidy to State Sector Project
• Subsidy for Commercial Projects
• Renovation and Modernisation of Old SHP Projects (State sector)
• Water Mills/Micro-hydel projects.
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