Energy / Odisha Charts Roadmap to Unlock Small Hydro Power Potential

Bhubaneswar, Sept 11: In a major development, Odisha government on Friday unveiled a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate small hydro power development, positioning itself as a key player in India’s clean energy transition, officials said.

The Energy Department, GRIDCO Limited, and knowledge partner iFOREST convened a high‑level Stakeholder Dialogue at a hotel here today, bringing together policymakers, financiers, developers, and experts to fast‑track the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s (MNRE) Small Hydro Power Development Scheme (2026–27 to 2030–31).

India has tapped only 5,171 MW of its estimated 21,133 MW small hydro potential. The new Rs2,584.60‑crore national scheme aims to add 1,500 MW capacity through about 200 projects, supported by Rs30 crore for Detailed Project Report preparation. Odisha, which holds nearly 11% of India’s surface water resources, is seeking to leverage this support to diversify its thermal‑heavy generation portfolio.

To ensure smooth integration of renewable energy, the State Government has approved an investment of nearly Rs16,000 crore to expand transmission infrastructure, including three new 765 kV networks.

Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, inaugurating the session, stressed that small hydro projects offer environmental and developmental advantages by utilizing irrigation canals and natural water flows without extensive land acquisition.
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Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Vishal Dev highlighted Odisha’s efforts to build a regulatory and financial ecosystem to convert raw potential into bankable projects. The dialogue concluded with the signing of a landmark Renewable Energy banking agreement, paving the way for priority site selection, streamlined clearances, and community benefit‑sharing.

Senior officials including Principal Secretary, FE&CC and CMD OPTCL Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, GRIDCO MD Dr. Satya Priya Rath, and iFOREST Director Mandvi Singh attended the event, underscoring Odisha’s commitment to building an investment‑ready pipeline for small hydro power.