Once at the forefront of power generation in India, today hydro power has fallen far behind. We take a look at what ails the sector and the possible solutions to restore its former glory.

Recent times have seen a welcome focus on harnessing renewable energy sources for power generation, worldwide. India too, has taken the challenge of curbing its carbon emissions head on, setting a humongous target of generating 175 GW through renewable sources by 2022.

It is good to give considerable thrust for development of solar and wind, but the development of hydropower should not be given least priority compared with the other renewable energy sources (Solar and Wind).

The key issues hydropower sector faces are delays in clearance and approval procedures, R And R and land acquisition issues, infrastructure availability in remote areas, inadequate incentives and capacity of developers

Once the major source of power generation in India, hydro power has seen a sharp downward trend in the recent years. From 44 per cent of the energy mix to a mere 18 per cent, this abundant, high potential and green energy

With increasing demand for electricity and rising gap between the demand and supply situation in India, there is an urgent need to tap all possible energy resources. Hydropower leads the list for various reasons.

The government has taken a number of initiatives to boost hydropower development and hydro power projects in order to meet the country´s power requirements

India is endowed with rich hydropower potential to the tune of 148 GW (which would be able to meet a demand of 84 GW at 60 per cent load factor) which makes it one of the most important potential sources to meet the energy security needs of the country.

India is endowed with rich hydropower potential to the tune of 148 GW (which would be able to meet a demand of 84 GW at 60 per cent load factor) which makes it one of the most important potential sources to meet the energy security needs of the country.