Author: PPD Team Date: 03/07/2025
The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) reviewed several hydroelectric and pumped storage projects in its latest 32nd meeting. The committee examined proposals related to environmental clearance, forest diversion, amendments, and Terms of Reference (ToR).
Bhavali Pumped Storage Project (1500 MW), Maharashtra
JSW Energy PSP Two Limited proposed this Rs 89.64 billion project across Thane and Nashik districts. The project had earlier been reviewed in two previous EAC meetings. After receiving additional project details, the committee recommended prior environmental clearance.
Thana Plaun Hydroelectric Project (191 MW), Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited’s Rs 15.30 billion hydro project is located near the confluence of Rana Khad and River Beas in Mandi district. Based on environmental studies and public hearing results, the EAC recommended granting environmental clearance.
Ambegaon Open Loop Pumped Storage Project (600 MW), Maharashtra
This Rs 29.40 billion project in Pune will use the existing Dimbhe Dam as the lower reservoir. The project proponent, Renew Hydro Power Private Limited, applied for the ToR to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The committee approved the ToR.
Tato-II Hydroelectric Project (700 MW), Arunachal Pradesh
NEEPCO’s Rs 81.30 billion hydro project in the Siang Basin is still under review. The EAC noted that key clearances, including Forest Clearance and transfer of Environmental Clearance, are pending. The proposal will be reconsidered after these are resolved.
Saundatti Integrated Renewable Energy with PSP (1600 MW), Karnataka
Greenko’s Rs 110.15 billion project in Belagavi district seeks to increase capacity from 1260 MW to 1600 MW. After reviewing the revised submission, the EAC recommended approval for amending the existing environmental clearance.
Upper Bhavani Open Loop PSP (1000 MW), Tamil Nadu
NTPC Tamilnadu Energy Company Limited’s project in The Nilgiris will use existing Upper Bhavani and Avalanche reservoirs. Most major structures are underground. The EAC granted ToR, with the final clearance pending post-EIA and EMP submission.
Malshej Ghat Bhorande PSP (1500 MW), Maharashtra
This project spans the Pune and Thane districts. The EAC Sub-Committee found the site topography suitable. The proponent was advised to improve public outreach. The project is awaiting public hearing and environmental clearance.