World Power Plants

INDIRA SAGAR1,000 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Indira Sagar is a significant hydroelectric power generation facility located in India, renowned for its substantial contribution to the national energy grid. With a capacity of 1000 MW, this power plant plays a crucial role in addressing the energy demands of the country. Commissioned in 2004, Indira Sagar is situated at coordinates 22.2791° N latitude and 76.4728° E longitude, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, where it utilizes advanced hydroelectric technology to convert the energy of water into sustainable electricity. The plant operates on a reservoir-based hydroelectric system, allowing it to store water and manage energy generation according to demand fluctuations. This operational flexibility is essential for balancing the electricity supply, particularly in a region that experiences varying energy consumption patterns. The significance of Indira Sagar extends beyond mere energy production; it supports local agricultural activities through irrigation and enhances regional development by creating job opportunities. The facility aligns with India’s national energy policy, which seeks to increase the share of renewable energy sources in the energy mix. By integrating large-scale hydroelectric projects like Indira Sagar, India aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental impacts. The plant is operated by the Narmada Valley Development Authority (NVDA), which plays a key role in managing and optimizing water resources in the region. Overall, Indira Sagar represents a vital asset in India's journey towards a sustainable energy future.

Capacity
1,000 MW

1.00 GW

Commissioning Year
2004

22 years old

Owner
NHPC Limited
Location
22.2791°, 76.4728°

India, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 179. largest of 1,805 plants in India
  • #2,414 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #355 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.19% of the installed capacity of India
Age & fleet comparison

22 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

NHPC Limited operates 44 plants totalling 16,358 MW

Regional density

7 plants within 100 km, 3,133 MW combined

Nearest plant: Shri Singaji MALWA TPP (21.1 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 22.279100, 76.472800
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

INDIRA SAGAR is a hydro power plant producing approximately 3504 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
India
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

Indira Sagar Hydro Power Plant: A Pillar of India's Renewable Energy Sector

The Indira Sagar Hydro Power Plant, located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India, is a significant contributor to the country's renewable energy landscape. Commissioned in 2004, the plant has a total installed capacity of 1000 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest hydroelectric projects in India. It harnesses the power of the Narmada River, employing a hydroelectric methodology that converts the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. This facility plays a crucial role in supporting India's growing energy demands, particularly in the central region, while promoting sustainable energy practices.

The technical details of the Indira Sagar plant highlight its innovative design and operational efficiency. The plant utilizes a reservoir created by the Indira Sagar Dam, which is a multipurpose project that not only generates electricity but also supports irrigation, flood control, and drinking water supply. The hydroelectric power generation process involves the use of turbines that rotate as water flows through them, generating electricity through a connected generator system. The facility is equipped with six units of 150 MW each and eight units of 110 MW, all designed to maximize energy output while minimizing operational costs. The reliance on hydroelectric power, which is renewable and abundant, underscores the plant's alignment with India’s commitment to increasing its share of clean energy in the national grid.

From an environmental perspective, the Indira Sagar Hydro Power Plant offers a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. By utilizing water as its primary fuel source, it diminishes the reliance on coal and natural gas, thereby contributing to a decrease in air pollution and carbon footprint. However, the construction of the dam and reservoir has also raised concerns regarding ecological impacts, such as changes in local biodiversity and potential displacement of communities. These challenges necessitate a balanced approach to hydropower development, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into project planning and execution.

Regionally, the Indira Sagar plant serves as a backbone for energy supply in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states, enhancing energy security and stability. It plays a pivotal role in meeting peak demand and providing reliable electricity to both urban and rural populations. Additionally, the plant supports regional economic development through job creation and infrastructure improvements, contributing to the overall growth of the local economy.

In conclusion, the Indira Sagar Hydro Power Plant stands as a vital asset in India's energy sector, exemplifying the potential of renewable energy sources. Its substantial capacity, coupled with its environmental benefits and regional significance, positions it as a model for future hydroelectric projects across the nation.

IndiaEnergy Profile

1,805
Total Plants
513.9 GW
Total Capacity
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