Saturday, 26 July 2025

The Pinnapuram Pumped Storage Plant, part of Greenko's Integrated Renewable Energy Project (IREP) in Andhra Pradesh, uses a closed-loop system with two reservoirs to conserve water.

 The Pinnapuram Pumped Storage Plant, part of Greenko's Integrated Renewable Energy Project (IREP) in Andhra Pradesh, uses a closed-loop system with two reservoirs to conserve water. Water is drawn from the existing Gorakallu Reservoir and circulated between the upper and lower reservoirs, with periodic top-ups to compensate for evaporation. This approach minimizes reliance on external water sources and reduces the project's environmental impact. 

Here's a more detailed look at t nihe water conservation approach:

Closed-Loop System:

The plant utilizes a closed-loop system where water is pumped from a lower reservoir to an upper reservoir and then released to generate electricity. This cycle is repeated, minimizing the need for a constant influx of fresh water. 

Sourcing from Existing Reservoir:

The initial water supply for the plant comes from the Gorakallu Reservoir, an existing balancing reservoir within an irrigation canal network. 

Minimizing Water Usage:

The project is designed to be an off-stream pumped storage project, meaning it's not directly connected to a river or other major water body. This significantly reduces the project's impact on natural water flows. 

Evaporation Management:

The project includes measures to manage evaporation losses, ensuring the water is used efficiently. 

Environmental Monitoring:

Greenko is committed to monitoring water quality and potential impacts on aquatic life, particularly during periods of fluctuating water levels. 

Water Quality Monitoring:

Water depth sensors will be installed, and hourly data on water levels will be collected and converted to discharge data. This data will be submitted to relevant authorities regularly, according to Greenko. 

E-Flow Monitoring (Not Applicable):

While e-flow monitoring is typically required for river-based projects, it is not applicable to this off-stream pumped storage project, according to Greenko. 


Dr. Amar Nath Giri 

No comments:

Post a Comment