The main objective of the Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project in India is to provide a renewable, low-carbon energy source in the northern grid/network that will make the supply of electricity more reliable.

The proposed project will mainly support the construction of a hydro electric project on the Alaknanda river that is expected to have a generation capacity of 1,800 GWh. This project will involve the construction a 65-meter diversion dam, tunnels, and an underground powerhouse. The project will also provide support for capacity building activities for the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd.

The World Bank (WB) estimates the total project cost at US$ 500 million.

UPDATES:

1 July 2011

The Board approved the project on 30 June 2011.

17 May 2011

The Board Approval has been moved to 21 June 2011. The total project cost is now estimated at US$ 922 million.

The objectives of the project have been enhanced, which are to increase the supply of energy to India’s national grid; and to support capacity building at THDC India Limited.

The project now consists of the following components:

Component 1: Construction of 444-MW Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project
Component 2: Technical Assistance for Institutional Strengthening and Capacity Building of THDC India Limited