THDC India Limited, a leading entity in the power sector, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Water Resources, Government of Maharashtra (GoMWRD), to harness Pumped Storage Energy through six major Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) in Maharashtra. These projects have a combined capacity of 6,790 MW and will involve an investment exceeding ₹33,600 crores. The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, who also holds portfolios for Home, Law and Judiciary, Water Resources and Command Area Development, Energy, and Protocol in the Government of Maharashtra.
This collaboration is a significant step forward in enhancing Maharashtra’s energy infrastructure and underscores the state’s commitment to renewable energy development. Shri Fadnavis congratulated the management of THDCIL for securing this agreement and pledged full support to ensure the timely execution and early completion of the projects.
The MoU facilitates the necessary surveys, investigations, and preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the projects. It emphasizes a time-bound approach while adhering to the policies and guidelines of both the Central and State Governments. Shri R.K. Vishnoi, Chairman and Managing Director of THDC India Limited (THDCIL), expressed his enthusiasm about this milestone, noting the company’s continued dedication to advancing India’s energy infrastructure. He highlighted that these projects will help unlock the untapped potential of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) in Maharashtra.
THDCIL is currently preparing to commission India’s largest Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) project, the 1,000 MW Tehri PSP, demonstrating its expertise in cutting-edge hydro projects. The six projects under this MoU include the Malshej Ghat Pumped Storage Project (700 MW), Aruna Pumped Storage Project (1,950 MW), Kharari Pumped Storage Project (1,250 MW), Humbarli Birmani Pumped Storage Project (1,000 MW), Aruna Kolamb Pumped Storage Project (1,200 MW), and Morawadi Majarewadi Pumped Storage Project (690 MW).
The agreement outlines the collaboration between THDCIL and GoMWRD, with the latter facilitating water allocation necessary for the projects, including both initial filling and annual consumptive needs. THDCIL will prepare and submit DPRs for approval to both the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and GoMWRD.
The MoU also establishes the framework for obtaining timely clearances and approvals from various state departments, ensuring seamless project execution. Shri Vishnoi emphasized that the successful completion of these projects will not only boost Maharashtra’s energy infrastructure but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. The projects are expected to promote eco-tourism, create approximately 30 lakh man-hours of direct and indirect employment annually during construction, and foster skill development.
Shri Shallinder Singh, Director (Personnel) at THDCIL, described the MoU as a transformative moment for both THDCIL and Maharashtra, marking a critical step towards achieving sustainable and renewable energy growth. He stressed the strategic importance of the six PSPs in strengthening the reliability and stability of Maharashtra’s power grid and aligning the state with its renewable energy goals.
