As an expert in the field of hydroelectric power, I have a deep understanding of the various power plants around the world, including those in India. When it comes to the largest hydroelectric power plants, there are several contenders, but one stands out in terms of its scale and impact on the country's power infrastructure.

The Koyna Hydroelectric Project is often cited as one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in India. Located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, the project is indeed a significant one. It consists of four dams, which are constructed on the Koyna River. The main dam, known as the Koyna Dam, is a concrete gravity dam with a height of 103 meters and a length of 807 meters. The project's capacity is 1,920 megawatts (MW), which is a substantial contribution to the power grid.

However, it's important to note that the title of the largest hydroelectric power plant in India is not solely based on the number of dams or the capacity of a single project. Other factors such as the total installed capacity across all projects, the volume of water managed, and the overall impact on the national power supply also play a crucial role.

India has been investing heavily in hydroelectric power due to its renewable nature and the country's commitment to sustainable energy. The Tehri Dam, for instance, is another contender for the title of the largest hydroelectric power plant in India. The Tehri Dam, located on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand, has a capacity of 1,000 MW and is part of the Tehri Hydroelectric Complex, which also includes the Koteshwar Dam.

Another significant project is the Bhakra Nangal Dam, which, with its installed capacity of 1,225 MW (including the additional 335 MW from the Nangal Hydel Channel), has been a vital part of India's power generation since the 1960s.

When considering the largest hydroelectric power plants, it's also essential to look at the Irrigation and Power Projects such as the Indira Sagar Project and the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. These projects not only generate electricity but also serve critical irrigation needs, highlighting the multifaceted nature of large hydroelectric projects in India.

In conclusion, while the Koyna Hydroelectric Project is a substantial facility, determining the largest hydroelectric power plant in India requires a comprehensive analysis of various projects and their capacities. It is a dynamic field with ongoing developments and expansions, so the rankings can change with new projects coming online.

read more >>

The Koyna Hydroelectric Project is the largest completed hydroelectric power plant in India. It is a complex project with four dams including the largest dam on the Koyna River, Maharashtra hence the name Koyna Hydroelectric Project. The project site is in Satara district near Patan.read more >>