SJVN to set up 1,800 MW project in Chhattisgarh

The SJVN has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Chhattisgarh government and Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company Limited (CSPGCL) for the development of 1,800 MW Kotpali Pumped Storage Project (PSP) there.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai by Sushil Kumar Sharma, Director (Projects), SJVN; Subodh Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary, Energy Department of Chhattisgarh; and Sanjeev Kumar Katiyar, Managing Director of the CSPGCL. Senior officials of the SJVN and the Chhattisgarh Government were also present.

The Kotpali PSP is an off-stream closed-loop type pumped storage project located in Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh. With an installed capacity of 1800 MW, the project is expected to generate about 3,967 million units of electricity annually. Once operational, it will contribute significantly to India's energy transition goals while ensuring a stable and resilient power supply.

The project entails an investment of Rs 9,500 crore and is anticipated to generate direct and indirect employment opportunities for around 5,000 people during construction and development phases. Besides reinforcing renewable energy infrastructure of Chhattisgarh, it will also drive economic growth, attract investments and create direct and indirect job opportunities in the region.

Pumped storage projects are critical for balancing renewable energy integration into the grid. With the growing share of solar and wind energy, the PSPs help maintain grid stability by storing surplus power during off-peak hours and discharging it during peak demand.