Garhwal Post Bureau
Rishikesh, 4 Jul: In a monumental advancement for India’s Renewable Energy infrastructure, THDC India Limited, a pioneering Public Sector Undertaking announced the successful commencement of the COD process for the Second Unit (250 MW) of 1000 MW Variable Speed Pumped Storage Plant (PSP) at Tehri.
This development marks a significant advancement in India’s hydropower capabilities as Tehri Pumped Storage Plant is not only the country’s first Variable Speed Pumped Storage facility, but also the largest of its kind implemented by any Central Public Sector Enterprise. With the first unit already operating successfully since June 2025, the commencement of second unit’s COD process further reinforces THDCIL’s leadership in delivering technologically advanced and grid-responsive clean energy infrastructure.
The event was graced by Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government of India, who officially commenced the operation of the second unit via virtual mode in the presence of Akash Tripathy (IAS), Additional Secretary, Ministry of Power, Mohammad Afzal, Joint Secretary, Gurdeep Singh, CMD, NTPC, RK Vishnoi, CMD, THDCIL, Shallinder Singh, Director (Personnel), THDCIL; Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical), THDCIL; and Sipan Kumar Garg, Director (Finance), THDCIL.
Pankaj Agarwal, while addressing the gathering, lauded the commencement of the COD process of the second unit and extended heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, to all officers and employees of THDC India Limited, along with the contracting agencies associated with the project, for achieving this remarkable milestone. He stated that the Ministry of Power is proud of this accomplishment, which reflects the dedication and technical excellence of the entire team. Agarwal appreciated that THDCIL has not only brought advanced pumped storage technology to India but has also taken on the challenging task of executing the entire project under difficult conditions
Gurdeep Singh, CMD, NTPC congratulated Team THDCIL for this historical milestone and commended the achievement, noting that the successful COD operations of the first unit on 4 June followed by the second unit on 4 July demonstrates the consistent progress and commitment of the THDCIL team. He urged the team to continue this momentum and expressed hope that, with sustained efforts, another milestone will also be achieved within a short span.
CMD RK Vishnoi conveyed his heartfelt greetings to entire Team THDCIL and executing agencies for their tireless efforts in achieving this remarkable feat. Vishnoi stated that the commencement of COD process of second unit at Tehri PSP not only symbolises a cutting-edge technological breakthrough by THDCIL but also signifies a resolute step towards India’s energy independence. With four reversible units of 250 MW each, Tehri PSP brings a unique advantage of generating 1000 MW of clean peaking power, addressing the crucial need for system reliability and grid stabilisation.
Vishnoi stated, that upon commissioning of all four units of Tehri PSP, the Tehri Hydro Power Complex will generate 2400 MW, emerging as India’s largest hydropower complex. More than just a milestone in capacity, it stands as a powerful testament to THDCIL’s ability to deliver infrastructure that strengthens both energy security and environmental sustainability.
The key variable-speed turbines, generators, and advanced digital control systems have been supplied by GE Vernova, a global leader in energy innovation. Their contributions have enabled THDCIL to integrate high-performance solutions that set new standards for hydroelectric excellence in India.
Also present on the occasion were LP Joshi, Executive Director (Tehri Complex), THDCIL, Neeraj Verma, Executive Director (I/C NCR) along with senior officials from THDCIL and representatives from the project consortium comprising GE Vernova, HCC, and other key stakeholders from the power sector. The equity of THDC India limited is shared between NTPC and Government of UP.
