In August 2024, hydropower plants in Gujarat set a new record for electricity generation.

11 Sep 2024

In August 2024, Gujarat's hydropower plants set a new benchmark with electricity generation reaching 1,067.3 million units (MU), a remarkable increase from the 308.7 MU recorded in July 2024. This surge is primarily due to the state's dams reaching full capacity, thanks to substantial water inflows during the monsoon season.

The Sardar Sarovar Dam, a crucial asset for Gujarat's water and energy management, was a major contributor, generating over 800 MU of electricity. Combined, the Sardar Sarovar River Bed Power House (RBPH) and Canal Head Power House (CHPH) produced a total of 891 MU. Other notable contributions include 143.1 MU from the Ukai Dam and 30.9 MU from the Kadana Dam, with the Sardar Sarovar RBPH and CHPH power stations producing 757.1 MU and 134.3 MU, respectively.

Gujarat's hydropower generation has demonstrated consistent growth over the years. Between 2019 and 2024, major dams in the state, such as Ukai, Kadana, Panam, and Sardar Sarovar, averaged an annual generation of 4,600 MU. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat is advancing towards India's goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, with a target of ensuring that renewable energy constitutes at least 50% of the total installed capacity.

To support this goal, Gujarat is actively pursuing various projects, including solar rooftops, hydroelectric power plants, and large-scale renewable energy parks. Recent heavy monsoon rains have further accelerated these efforts, leading to unprecedented power generation from the state's major dams. In the fiscal year 2022-23, Gujarat's hydropower production peaked at 6,170.456 MU, marking a 134% increase from the previous year, while the total for 2023-24 was 4,584.932 MU.

This success builds on the visionary groundwork laid by former Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who positioned Gujarat as a leader in renewable energy. Under his tenure, Gujarat became the first state in India to establish a Climate Change Department, laying the foundation for sustainable practices and progress towards energy transition and net-zero goals. Gujarat continues to make strides in its renewable energy sector, contributing significantly to India's clean energy objectives.