Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Meeting to Focus on ₹11,500 Crore Hydro Storage Project

Gandhi Sagar, November 12 (Daily Kiran) : Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will preside over a significant cabinet meeting on November 18 at Gandhi Sagar in Madhya Pradesh. The meeting will spotlight the state’s ambitious ₹11,500 crore pumped hydro storage project.

Developed by the Greenko Group in Neemuch district, this 1,920 megawatt initiative aims to bolster the state’s renewable energy infrastructure. It is expected to reduce electricity costs and create job opportunities.

This project is one of the largest standalone pumped hydro storage facilities currently under construction in India. Spanning approximately 414 hectares, it will utilize the existing Gandhi Sagar reservoir as the lower reservoir, while a new reservoir will be created for the upper reservoir.

The facility will pump water from the lower to the upper reservoir using excess solar and wind energy. During peak demand hours, the stored water will be released to drive turbines, generating electricity.

According to government statements, the project will help prevent wastage of additional renewable energy and ensure the availability of green power based on demand. Nine turbines are being installed, capable of producing electricity for six continuous hours.

The annual energy production capacity is estimated at 3,580 million units, with a round-trip efficiency of approximately 80 percent. The first set of turbines is expected to become operational in December, with the entire project slated to commence by June 2027.

During the construction phase, around 4,000 individuals have found employment, and the project is expected to provide about 200 permanent jobs in its operation and maintenance phase. The company has been instructed to prioritize employment opportunities for local candidates in Madhya Pradesh.

Electricity generated during peak demand will be supplied to NTPC, the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), and various electricity distribution companies in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states. This initiative is anticipated to help power distribution companies save costs by reducing reliance on expensive peak-hour electricity.

Additionally, the Gandhi Sagar area is being developed as a tourism and wildlife destination. The Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is being established as the second habitat for cheetahs in the state, following Kuno National Park. The state government is also promoting the “Gandhi Sagar Floating Festival,” tent city facilities, and water sports to generate employment in tourism, hospitality, and handicrafts.

This cabinet meeting is part of the state government’s initiative to hold meetings in various locations to explore local development opportunities.