THDC inks MoU with Maharashtra Govt to develop 6,790 MW of Pumped Storage projects

New Delhi: THDC India Limited has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Department of Water Resources, Government of Maharashtra (GoMWRD) for harnessing of pumped storage energy through six Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) in Maharashtra, totalling a remarkable 6,790 MW capacity and involving a proposed investment of more than Rs 33,600 crores. The MoU was signed in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis.

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This collaboration marks a significant advancement in Maharashtra's Energy Infrastructure and reinforces the commitment to enhancing the state's renewable energy capabilities. Fadnavis extended heartfelt congratulations to the management of THDC for the successful signing of this landmark MoU and conveyed full support and cooperation to ensure the effective implementation and early completion of projects.

The MoU aims to facilitate the developer in conducting surveys, investigations, and the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), and in establishing the projects in a time-bound manner while adhering to the prevailing rules, policies, and schemes of both the Central and State Governments.

THDC CMD RK Vishnoi conveyed his heartfelt best wishes on this landmark MoU and said that it is a significant step in the company's commitment to advancing the country's Energy infrastructure. This initiative will enable THDC to harness the untapped potential of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) in the State of Maharashtra.

Vishnoi emphasized that THDC is on the cusp of commissioning India's largest CPSE project, the 1000 MW Tehri PSP, demonstrating the company's expertise in developing cutting-edge Hydro Projects. The six planned projects under this MoU are the Malshej Ghat Pumped Storage Project (700 MW), the Aruna Pumped Storage Project (1950 MW), the Kharari Pumped Storage Project (1250 MW), the Humbarli Birmani Pumped Storage Project (1000 MW), the Aruna Kolamb Pumped Storage Project (1200 MW), and the Morawadi Majarewadi Pumped Storage Project (690 MW). The signing of this MOU marks a substantial advancement in Maharashtra’s Energy infrastructure and underscores THDC’s commitment to bolstering the State’s Renewable Energy capabilities.

Vishnoi added that the MoU sets forth several crucial agreements between THDC and GoMWRD. As part of the collaboration, GoMWRD will facilitate the process of water allocation necessary for the projects, including both initial filling and annual consumptive requirements, upon receiving applications from THDC. In return, THDC is dedicated to preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for each project and submitting them for approval to both the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and GoMWRD.

The MoU, was signed by THDC Director (Personnel) Shallinder Singh and the Deepak Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Water Resource Department, Government of Maharashtra. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in Maharashtra's Energy Infrastructure and reinforces the commitment to enhancing the State's Renewable Energy capabilities.

The MoU also stipulates that the State will assist THDC in obtaining timely clearances and approvals by existing policies. THDC will be responsible for applying to various departments while keeping GoMWRD informed throughout the process.

Vishnoi further highlighted that on completion these Projects will significantly contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. This will promote Eco-Tourism and is likely to generate around 30 lakhs man-hours of direct/indirect employment opportunities on an annual basis during the construction of the Projects, and foster skill development, thereby supporting the broader service sector.

Shallinder Singh, Director (Personnel) at THDC, emphasized the transformative impact this MoU will have on Maharashtra's Energy landscape. He noted, “This Memorandum of Understanding represents a pivotal moment for both THDC and the State of Maharashtra. It is not just a commitment to advancing our Energy Infrastructure but also a profound step towards realizing our shared vision of Sustainable and Renewable Energy growth.

Singh highlighted the strategic importance of the six Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs), stating, “The development of these six significant PSPs is expected to not only bolster the Reliability and Stability of Maharashtra’s Grid but also contribute to the State’s efforts in meeting its Renewable Energy targets. The collaboration with GoMWRD ensures that we are aligned with State policies and THDC will facilitate a streamlined process for the successful execution of these Projects.”

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