The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee has published a national-level study that outlines a strategic framework for the implementation of Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSP) in India. This technology is viewed as crucial for effectively managing the rapid expansion of the nation’s renewable energy grid. The report was unveiled on April 13, 2026, by Santosh Kumar Sarangi, who is the Secretary of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Led by Professor Arun Kumar, the study incorporates insights from various stakeholders, including PSP developers, financial institutions, regulators, and equipment suppliers across the country.

Pumped Storage Hydropower Explained

India has committed to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and aims for net-zero emissions by 2070. As the capacity for solar and wind energy increases, ensuring grid stability becomes a pressing issue due to the intermittent nature of these renewable sources. Pumped Storage Hydropower directly addresses these challenges by operating similarly to large batteries. It utilises excess energy to pump water to higher elevations and can subsequently release this water through turbines during peak demand periods, reportedly operating with an efficiency of up to 80 per cent.

Currently, India has approximately 4.8 GW of installed PSP capacity. However, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has recognised that the nation possesses a potential exceeding 100 GW, most of which remains untapped. The PSP technology is vital for balancing supply and demand, particularly as the reliance on renewables expands.

The IIT report identifies several policy, regulatory, financial, and technological obstacles that hinder PSP deployment. It offers specific recommendations aimed at overcoming these barriers. Among its innovative proposals, the report considers the feasibility of sea-based PSP systems along India’s western coast, as well as the utilisation of abandoned mines for localised storage solutions. These suggestions aim to decrease the land impact of new projects while minimising environmental consequences.

Recommendations and Future Steps

The report emphasises the importance of India reducing its reliance on imported PSP technologies and stresses the necessity for significant investments in research and development. Professor Arun Kumar remarked that the country must focus on fostering indigenous capabilities for developing the PSP technologies currently sourced from abroad. The report draws attention to the urgency of enhancing local expertise to secure India’s energy future.

Highlighting the need for collaborative efforts, Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairman of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), underscored the importance of coordinated policy support, alignment among stakeholders, and the rapid implementation of PSP projects. He indicated that these efforts are crucial for meeting the surging energy demands of the nation sustainably and ensuring that the core objectives of renewable energy integration are met.

The findings of the IIT Roorkee study underline the pivotal role that Pumped Storage Hydropower can play in helping India realise its ambitious net-zero targets. By identifying barriers to implementation and proposing actionable solutions, the report serves as a significant resource for policymakers looking to advance India’s energy transition.

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