Gujarat’s Dams Achieve Record Hydropower Generation in August 2024
In August 2024, Gujarat’s hydropower plants generated an impressive 1,067.3 million units (MU) of electricity, a significant increase from the 308.7 MU recorded in July 2024. This surge is largely due to the state’s dams reaching full capacity from abundant monsoon water inflows.
Sardar Sarovar Dam’s Contribution
The Sardar Sarovar Dam, a key player in Gujarat’s water and energy management, generated over 800 MU of electricity. Specifically, the Sardar Sarovar River Bed Power House (RBPH) and Canal Head Power House (CHPH) produced 757.1 MU and 134.3 MU, respectively.
Other Dams’ Performance
The Ukai Dam generated 143.1 MU, while the Kadana Dam produced 30.9 MU. Overall, Gujarat’s hydropower generation has shown consistent growth, averaging 4,600 MU annually from 2019 to 2024.
Renewable Energy Goals
Guided by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat is pushing towards India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. The state aims to boost the renewable energy share to at least 50% of the total installed capacity. Projects like solar rooftops, hydroelectric power plants, and large renewable energy parks are being actively pursued.
Historical Context
This success is rooted in the foresight of former Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who established Gujarat as a leader in renewable energy. Under his tenure, Gujarat became the first state in India to create a Climate Change Department, enabling sustainable measures and advancing towards energy transition and net-zero goals.
Doubts Revealed
Gujarat -: Gujarat is a state in western India, known for its rich culture, history, and economic development.
Hydropower -: Hydropower is electricity generated by using the energy of flowing water, usually from dams.
Million Units (MU) -: Million Units (MU) is a way to measure electricity. One unit is equal to one kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity.
Sardar Sarovar Dam -: The Sardar Sarovar Dam is a large dam on the Narmada River in Gujarat, used for water storage, irrigation, and generating electricity.
Monsoon rains -: Monsoon rains are heavy seasonal rains that occur in India, usually from June to September, which help fill up rivers and dams.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel -: Bhupendra Patel is the current Chief Minister of Gujarat, responsible for the administration and development of the state.
Renewable energy -: Renewable energy comes from natural sources that can be replenished, like sunlight, wind, and water.
4,600 MU annually -: This means that on average, Gujarat’s hydropower plants have been generating 4,600 million units of electricity each year from 2019 to 2024.
500 GW -: 500 GW (gigawatts) is a very large amount of power. India aims to have this much capacity from non-fossil fuel sources like solar, wind, and hydropower by 2030.
Non-fossil fuel capacity -: This refers to energy sources that do not burn fossil fuels like coal or oil, instead using renewable sources like wind, solar, and water.