Karnataka to Push 2 GW Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project Despite Environmental Concerns

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has reaffirmed the state government's commitment to implementing the 2 GW Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project, describing it as essential for meeting Karnataka's future electricity demand despite environmental objections.

Speaking at the 57th Foundation Day celebrations of Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd. (KPCL) in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said that the groundwork for the project had begun years ago but failed to materialise. He added that the government is now securing the necessary statutory clearances and will move ahead with the project.

"Some people are raising objections, but we will not retreat from a project that is crucial for the state," he said.

Drawing a parallel with the Yelahanka gas based power plant, Shivakumar said that the project also faced strong opposition initially but was eventually completed in the state's interest and is now contributing to Karnataka's power supply.

Highlighting the state's renewable energy initiatives, Shivakumar said that the Pavagada Solar Park has emerged as a national model by making farmers stakeholders instead of acquiring their land. The park currently generates 2 GW of solar power, and farmers have offered an additional 10,000 acres for its planned expansion, with work expected to begin shortly.

The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted the state's electricity subsidy programmes. He said that  the Gruha Jyothi Scheme provides free electricity to 1.61 crore households, with the government spending around INR 10,000 crore annually. Another INR 20,000 crore is spent each year on free electricity for agricultural pump sets, resulting in total annual electricity subsidies of nearly INR 30,000 crore.

He credited KPCL for playing a key role in implementing these initiatives and urged its employees to continue contributing to Karnataka's development as 'Team Karnataka.'

The proposed Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydropower Project, planned on the Sharavathi River in the Western Ghats, will have an installed capacity of 2 GW using Francis turbines. The project has been under review due to environmental concerns, with activists opposing plans that could involve the felling of around 15,000 trees across 57 hectares, including several endangered species. If approved, it would rank among India's largest pumped storage hydropower projects.