Understanding NHPC’s Tanakpur

Hydro Power Project

ANISH KUMAR

ENROLLMENT NO. PGDM00B010

Significance of Hydro Power Project
THPP plays a pivotal role in meeting the energy
THPP is strategically located on the Sharda demands of the region.
River in the Champawat district of Contributes significantly to the clean energy mix
Uttarakhand, India of NHPC and the nation

Location Key Features Importance Environment Consideration

Installed Capacity: [Insert Capacity, e.g., 120 MW] Emphasizes NHPC's commitment to sustainable
Operational since: [Insert Operational Year, e.g., 1993] development.
Reservoir Capacity: [Insert Reservoir Capacity, e.g., 1,085 Mitigates greenhouse gas emissions and reduces reliance
million cubic meters] on non-renewable energy sources.
 River and Watershed/Catchment Area
• Tanakpur Hydro Power Plant (THPP) is located on
the Sharda River, a major tributary of the Ganges
River.

• The Sharda River is known for its significance in the

Himalayan region, flowing through the states of
Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.

•Watershed/Catchment Area: The watershed or

catchment area of THPP encompasses [Insert Square
Kilometers] square kilometers.

•It plays a crucial role in the hydrological cycle,

influencing the water availability for the Sharda
River.
 Conversion Technology
Mechanical Power:- A watermill is a facility harnessing
hydropower, characterized by the utilization of a water wheel
or water turbine to propel a mechanical operation, such as
milling (grinding), rolling, or hammering.
Watermills can be categorized based on the orientation of their
wheels, distinguishing between vertical and horizontal types.
The vertical waterwheel, driven by a gear mechanism, and the
horizontal waterwheel, which lacks such a mechanism,
represent the two primary classifications. The vertical type can
be further subdivided based on where the water impacts the
wheel paddles, resulting in undershot, overshot, breast shot,
and pitchback (backshot or reverse shot) waterwheel mills.
Another classification criterion involves their location-based
functionality tide mills harness the movement of tides, while
ship mills are water mills integrated into and operating aboard
a ship.
 Hydraulic Turbine
A hydraulic turbine is a device designed to transform
hydraulic energy into mechanical energy, which is
subsequently converted into electrical energy by linking the
turbine's shaft to a generator. In this process, when water
from the penstock impacts the circular blades or runner with
high pressure, it initiates the rotation of the central shaft,
leading to the generation of electrical power.

1.Impulse turbine:
1. Also known as a velocity turbine, the Pelton wheel turbine
is an example of an impulse turbine.

2.Reaction turbine:
1. Referred to as a pressure turbine, turbines such as the
Kaplan turbine and Francis turbine fall into this category.
 Technical Features
1. Civil Works: Imagine a colossal dam taming the river, diverting its flow through intricate canals and
tunnels. This headworks system sets the stage for the water's journey. Penstocks, resembling giant steel
arteries, then channel the pressurized water towards the heart of the plant - the powerhouse. Here, amidst
the cavernous halls, lie the tailrace channels, ensuring the water's smooth release back into the river after it
has yielded its energy.

2. Electro-mechanical Equipment: The powerhouse pulsates with the rhythmic dance of turbines and
generators. These majestic machines, be it the mighty Francis turbines or the swift Kaplan runners, convert
the water's force into rotational energy. This energy then dances its way into the generators, spinning their
rotors and weaving the magic of electricity. Transformers step up the generated voltage, preparing it for its
voyage across the grid
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3. Hydraulic Steel Structures: Picture intricate steel sculptures crafted with meticulous precision. These
are the hydraulic steel structures, the unsung heroes of the conversion process. Penstock gates, like vigilant
guardians, control the water's flow. Turbine runners and casings, sculpted to perfection, transform water
pressure into rotational magic. And the draft tubes, with their elegant curves, ensure the efficient utilization
of every drop of water's energy.

4. Grid Connection Equipment & Structures: The electricity, now coursing through high-voltage
veins, needs a path to the world. Enter the grid connection equipment. Switchgear acts as a vigilant traffic
controller, ensuring safe and efficient flow of electricity. Transmission lines, like steel lifelines, carry the
power over vast distances, supported by towering giants. Finally, substations step down the voltage,
transforming the mighty river's roar into a gentle hum that illuminates homes and powers industries.
 Tanakpur Hydro Power Project Issues, Challenges and Opportunities

Nestled amidst the lush foothills of the Himalayas, the Tanakpur Hydropower Project (THPP) stands as a testament to
human ingenuity and the pursuit of clean energy. Its towering dam harnesses the mighty Teesta River, channeling its
power to generate electricity for millions. But the story of THPP goes beyond mere kilowatt-hours; it's a narrative
woven with threads of local development, opportunity, and challenges.

THPP is an engine of progress. Its estimated 1050 MW of electricity generation capacity promises to illuminate
homes, power industries, and drive economic growth in the region.

•Job creation: Thousands of jobs are created during construction and operation, providing much-needed
income and boosting local economies.

•Infrastructure upgrade: Improved roads, bridges, and communication networks not only facilitate project
operations but also enhance the lives of residents, connecting them to essential services and opportunities.

•Skilled labor development: Training programs equip locals with the skills needed to participate in the
project and contribute to its success, fostering a sense of ownership and long-term employability.
 THPP Regulatory Policy
The Tanakpur Hydropower Project (THPP) stands as a testament to India's ambitious clean energy goals. Nestled
amidst the majestic Himalayas, this 1050 MW behemoth promises to illuminate millions of homes and power
industries across the region. However, bringing such a colossal undertaking to life necessitates navigating a complex
web of regulatory, policy, and commercial considerations.

• National Hydropower Policy 2018: This policy aims to promote hydropower development while emphasizing
environmental sustainability, community development, and grid integration. THPP must align its practices with these
policy directives.

• Renewable Energy Purchase Obligation (RPO): States have RPO targets mandating a specific percentage of
electricity from renewable sources. THPP can tap into this market by selling its clean energy, contributing to India's
renewable energy goals.

• Resettlement and Rehabilitation (R&R) Policy 2004: This policy ensures fair compensation and sustainable
livelihood options for communities displaced by large infrastructure projects. THPP's R&R plan must adhere to
these guidelines to foster social harmony.
 Key Learnings from THPP Visit:
Hydropower, also known as hydroelectric power, is a form of renewable energy that harnesses the energy of flowing
or falling water to generate electricity. It has been a significant source of power for centuries and remains a key
component of the global energy mix. Here's a comprehensive overview of hydropower:

1. Hydropower systems utilize the energy of moving water, which can come from rivers, streams, or artificial
channels.

2. Dam Construction:

In many cases, a dam is built to create a reservoir, or artificial lake, by impounding water. The height of the dam
determines the potential energy that can be harnessed.

3. Penstock:

Water is then released from the reservoir through a controlled opening or penstock. The force of the falling or
flowing water drives a turbine.
 Comparative Experience Between NTPC Dadri Versus
NHPC Tanakpur
When I went on a trip to NTPC's Dadri Thermal Power Plant and NHPC's Tanakpur Hydro Power Project, it
was like stepping into two different technology of making electricity. Dadri was all about big machines and
burning coal to create power. The machines were giant, making lots of steam and noise, and we had to wear
special gear to protect ourselves. It was fascinating to see how burning coal could make electricity, but we
learned that it's not great for the air and the environment. The air felt a bit heavy, and we could see all the
smoke coming out. It got us thinking about the air we breathe every day and how making electricity this
way might not be the best for our planet.

On the other hand, when we visited Tanakpur, things were way different. Instead of burning coal, they used
the power of flowing water to generate electricity. It was much quieter, and we could hear the calming
sound of the river. We saw these massive wheels turning because of the water, kind of like a water wheel
from olden times. It felt more natural, surrounded by the river and greenery. The air seemed cleaner, and we
didn't need special gear. Learning about how they used water instead of burning coal was exciting because it
seemed better for nature.
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Dadri needed a massive area for all the coal and machines, and there wasn't much greenery around.
Tanakpur, on the other hand, felt like it was working with nature. The power plant was close to a river, and
everything seemed more compact. We also found out that Dadri uses coal, which can run out one day and
isn't great for nature. But Tanakpur uses water, which is always there, and it's better for the environment. It
made us think about how we get our electricity and what impact it has on our world.

Seeing both places made me like Tanakpur more because it felt like they were using nature's power without
making so much noise or hurting the air. It made me wonder if we can have more power plants like
Tanakpur to keep our world clean and green. Maybe we can find even better ways to make electricity that
don't harm our planet. It was a cool trip that opened our eyes to how different power plants work and the
choices we have in making electricity.