The Sharavati Project: A New Era of Hydroelectric Power

The Sharavati River, which originates in Shivamogga district, flows for 130 km through the ecologically rich Western Ghats before merging with the Arabian Sea. In response to rising energy demands, the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) has proposed a 2,000 MW pumped storage project (PSP) utilizing two existing reservoirs in the Sharavati valley. This initiative is set to enhance the state's power grid stability and support its growing energy needs.

The Sharavati region has long been a significant source of hydroelectric power, hosting key plants like the Sharavathy Generating Station (1,035 MW), Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric Station (139.2 MW), Linganamakki Dam Power House (55 MW), and Gerusoppa Dam Power House (240 MW), which together have contributed affordable electricity to Karnataka.

The KPCL board approved the PSP project in 2016, followed by state government approval in 2017. Additionally, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has highlighted the Sharavati PSP as a critical part of its plan to generate 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030. To minimize environmental impact, the project’s implementation is designed to have most of the construction taking place underground, ensuring minimal disruption to the forest cover.

News by Rahul Yelligetti