Why in the news?
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) organized a National Workshop and launched the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme Guidelines (FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31) to accelerate the development of the SHP sector in India.
About the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme
- Implementing Ministry: MNRE
- Scheme Period: FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31
- Objective:
- Revival and expansion of the Small Hydro Power sector.
- Harness untapped hydro potential.
- Promote renewable energy diversification.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Capacity Target: Installation of approximately 1,500 MW of new SHP capacity.
- Total allocation: ₹2,584.60 crore
What is Small Hydro Power (SHP)?
- In India, Small Hydro Power Projects are hydroelectric projects with an installed capacity of up to 25 MW
- These projects generally involve:
- Run-of-the-river systems.
- Minimal reservoir requirements.
- Lower environmental impacts compared to large dams.
[2024] Recently, the term “pumped-storage hydropower” is actually and appropriately discussed in the context of which one of the following?
[A] Irrigation of terraced crop fields
[B] Lift irrigation of cereal crops
[C] Long duration energy storage
[D] Rainwater harvesting system