Q. Explain the major thermal and hydro power projects in Telangana. What are the challenges the state faces in ensuring enough energy supply?

Approach:
1. Introduction:
• Briefly state the post-formation energy imbalance Telangana inherited (mention deficit, mismatch in generation vs demand).
• Mention Telangana’s dual strategy: rapid thermal capacity expansion + hydro optimization to stabilize power availability.
2. Body:
A. Major Thermal Power Projects:
• Expansion through Kothagudem (1,720 MW), NTPC Ramagundam (2,600 MW), Singareni (1,200 MW), and Bhoopalpally Thermal Project.
• Adoption of supercritical technologies enhanced efficiency.
B. Major Hydro Power Projects:
• Utilization of Nagarjuna Sagar Left Canal, Srisailam Left Bank (900 MW), and Lower Jurala (240 MW).
• Pulichintala and Kaleshwaram Lift Hydro components supported seasonal balancing.
C. Challenges in Energy Supply:
• Seasonal hydro variability and coal supply constraints persist.
• T&D losses remain high in rural areas.
• Rapid industrial demand and slow renewable adoption challenge stability.
3. Conclusion
• Telangana’s energy base is strong but coal reliance (65%) persists.
• Initiatives like the Renewable Energy Export Policy 2022 and floating solar projects steer it towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.

Introduction:
After its formation in 2014, Telangana inherited around 28% of generation capacity against 46% of the combined power demand of united Andhra Pradesh, creating a severe 2,700 MW deficit. To address this, Telangana prioritized thermal expansions (Bhadradri, Yadadri) and hydro optimization (Nagarjuna Sagar, Srisailam), while navigating challenges of resource dependence and infrastructure gaps.

Body:
A. Major Thermal Power Projects
-Kothagudem Thermal Power Station (KTPS): Located in Bhadradri Kothagudem, capacity of 1,720 MW.
-Ramagundam Thermal Power Station (NTPC): One of India’s largest, with 2,600 MW capacity.
-Singareni Collieries Thermal Power Plant (Mancherial): Operated by SCCL, generating around 1,200 MW.
-Bhoopalpally Thermal Power Project: Supports eastern Telangana’s energy needs.
-Supercritical Units Adoption: Newer thermal projects designed with high-efficiency supercritical technology.

B. Major Hydro Power Projects.
-Nagarjuna Sagar Hydro Plant: Telangana draws from the left canal powerhouse.
-Srisailam Left Bank Powerhouse: Capacity of 900 MW, vital for peak-load management.
-Lower Jurala Hydro Project: 240 MW project on the Krishna River.
-Pulichintala Hydro Project: Secondary source balancing seasonal power demands.
-Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Power Component: Hydro turbines integrated with major irrigation projects under planning.
C. Challenges in Ensuring Energy Supply
-Seasonal Water Dependence: Hydroelectric output fluctuates with monsoon variability.
-Coal Supply Constraints: Dependence on low-grade domestic coal and costly imports.
-Transmission and Distribution Losses: Losses significant in rural districts like Adilabad and Khammam.
-Rapid Demand Growth: Industrial hubs like Hyderabad–Warangal corridor intensify grid pressure.
-Slow Renewable Integration: Solar and wind sectors remain underdeveloped despite high potential.

Conclusion:
While thermal and hydro projects form the foundation of Telangana’s energy sector, coal dependency (65%) and seasonal hydro variability challenge sustainability. Through the Renewable Energy Export Policy 2022, aiming for 20 GW green energy by 2030, and innovations like the 100 MW Ramagundam Floating Solar Plant, India’s largest floating solar power project, conserving land and water, Telangana is steering towards a low-carbon, resilient energy future.