Polavaram (Andhra Pradesh), April 11 The PHEP, which is part of the mega Polavaram project, is set to become a major contributor to Andhra Pradesh's energy security, the government said on Saturday.
Upon completion, it will have an installed capacity of 960 MW, comprising 12 power-generating units of 80 MW each.
"The Polavaram Hydro Electric Project is poised to emerge as one of the most significant hydroelectric power assets in India, both in terms of scale and technological advancement, making it a major contributor to Andhra Pradesh's energy security," said a press release.
Featuring massive vertical Kaplan turbines designed to handle exceptionally high water discharge, each unit of the hydroelectric project is being engineered to operate at a discharge of 331 cubic metres per second at a rotational speed of 100 revolutions per minute.
Consequently, PHEP emerges as one of the projects equipped with the largest Kaplan turbine units ever installed in the country.
This advanced configuration ensures high efficiency, especially under varying water-flow conditions typical of river-based hydro projects.
Upon completion, PHEP will be capable of generating 960 MW of clean hydropower, contributing approximately 23 million units (MU) of electricity per day during peak operations.
This quantum of power generation will be achieved by utilising about 12 TMC of water daily, effectively translating water resources into energy with high efficiency.
On an annual basis, the project is expected to produce around 2,500 MU of electricity, said the press release.
Expected to deliver substantial economic benefits, the southern state's annual financial advantage is projected to exceed Rs 1,100 crore, at a levelised tariff estimated at Rs 4.57 per unit.
"This will not only reduce dependence on costly power purchases from external sources but also help stabilise electricity tariffs for consumers," said the press release.
Besides playing a crucial role during the monsoon season when floodwater inflows are abundant, the hydroelectric project is also being designed to operate strategically during regulated water releases to the Godavari delta for irrigation purposes.
By harnessing this water effectively, the project will significantly strengthen the state electricity grid, ensuring a reliable and cost-effective power supply, particularly during peak demand periods, said the press release.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is supplying electro-mechanical equipment, including turbines and generators required for PHEP.
Likewise, German giant Siemens, globally renowned for expertise in high-voltage transmission solutions, is supplying advanced gas-insulated and air-insulated substation systems, among other suppliers and project contractors.
"Currently, the project is progressing in fast-track mode, with both civil construction and electro-mechanical works advancing at a rapid pace. Equipment supplies from BHEL and Siemens Energy are arriving at the site in a phased and timely manner, ensuring that installation activities continue without delay," said the press release.
According to project authorities and the Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation Ltd (APGENCO), at least three power-generating units of PHEP are targeted for commissioning by July 2027, before the commencement of the Godavari Pushkaralu (a Kumbh Mela-like pilgrimage).
Further, the entire project is targeted for full completion by January 2028, which would mark a major milestone in the state's power sector.
Once operational, PHEP is expected to not only enhance power generation capacity but also serve as a cornerstone of a sustainable, reliable, and economical energy source in Andhra Pradesh, said the press release.
In addition to hydroelectric power, the multipurpose Polavaram project, situated on the Godavari River near Ramayyapeta village in Polavaram mandal of the eponymous district, is intended to develop a gross irrigation potential of over 4.3 lakh hectares.
It is also expected to provide drinking water to 28.5 lakh people in 611 villages and divert 80 TMC of water to the Krishna river basin, according to the Polavaram Project Authority (PPA), among several other benefits.