Rajasthan’s New Policy on Pumped Storage Projects

• 08 Aug 2024

Why in News?

According to the sources, the Rajasthan government is going to bring a new policy on pumped storage projects as part of its efforts to promote renewable energy.

Key Points

• According to the Chief Minister, the State would soon become self-reliant in the energy sector with steps being taken to strengthen renewable sources.
• Eight potential locations have been identified in the State for establishing these projects with the capacity of 7,100 Megawatt power for supply to electricity grids reliant on solar and wind power.
  • The work on the pumped storage projects had been undertaken in accordance with the provisions outlined in the State's wind and hybrid energy policy of 2019 and the renewable energy policy of 2023.
  • The State has received approval to initiate its first independent pumped storage project with a capacity of 1,800 MW, which will be located in the Shahbad area of Baran district, within the Kuno river basin.

The Kuno River

• It is one of the main tributaries of the Chambal River.
• It flows through the Kuno National Park from south to north, draining the other rivulets and Tributaries into Chambal River in Morena at MP-Rajasthan border.
• It is a vital source of water for the Kuno National Park’s diverse flora and fauna.
• It is 180 km long and originates from the Vindhya mountain range in Madhya Pradesh.