In a significant stride toward India’s ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030, the Odisha Hydro Power Corporation Ltd. (OHPC) and WAPCOS Ltd. signed a pivotal agreement today for project management consultancy services for the 600 MW Upper Indravati Pumped Storage Project (UIPSP) at Mukhiguda in Kalahandi.
The signing ceremony was held in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg, and Principal Secretary, Energy, Vishal Kumar Dev, marking a transformative step in Odisha’s journey toward a sustainable and resilient energy future.
As India accelerates its transition to renewable energy, sources like wind and solar, while critical, are inherently variable and often unavailable during peak demand periods, such as nighttime. Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) are emerging as a vital solution to balance generation and demand, ensuring grid stability.
The UIPSP, located near OHPC’s existing 600 MW Upper Indravati Hydro Electric Project, is designed to function as a massive energy storage system. It will pump water from a lower reservoir to an upper one during periods of surplus grid power and release it to generate electricity during peak demand, effectively acting as a “battery” for the grid.
The UIPSP will feature an underground powerhouse equipped with four vertical-axis reversible Francis hydroelectric units, each with a capacity of 150 MW, totalling 600 MW. These units will operate in both pumping and generating modes, cycling water between the two reservoirs daily to meet fluctuating energy demands. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the project, prepared by WAPCOS, underscores this innovative initiative’s technical and environmental feasibility.
Speaking at the event, Dy CM Singh Deo emphasised the project’s significance, stating, “This collaboration between OHPC and WAPCOS is a landmark achievement for Odisha’s energy sector. The Upper Indravati Pumped Storage Project will not only enhance grid reliability but also reinforce our commitment to sustainable development and energy security.” Senior officials from the Water Resources and Energy Departments, along with representatives from OHPC and WAPCOS, were present, highlighting the collaborative effort behind this initiative.
The UIPSP is poised to play a critical role in India’s renewable energy ecosystem. With 220 GW of non-fossil energy capacity already installed as of March 31, 2025, projects like UIPSP are essential to integrating more renewable energy into the grid while maintaining stability. By leveraging Odisha’s natural topography and existing hydroelectric infrastructure, the project optimises resources and minimises environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals.
This agreement also underscores the growing partnership between OHPC and WAPCOS, a leading consultancy organisation specialising in water resources, power, and infrastructure development. WAPCOS’s expertise in preparing the DPR and providing project management consultancy will ensure the timely and efficient execution of the UIPSP, setting a model for future PSPs across India.
As Odisha takes bold steps toward a greener future, the Upper Indravati Pumped Storage Project stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and energy independence.
With construction set to commence, the project is expected to contribute significantly to India’s renewable energy targets while powering Odisha’s growth for years to come.
