The Nilgiri Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are not only known for their breathtaking scenery but also for pioneering sustainable energy solutions. The Kundah underground pumped storage hydroelectric power project is Nestled amidst the lush greenery, a marvel of modern engineering by MEIL (Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited).

Harnessing the Power of Water:

Pumped storage hydropower utilizes the potential energy of water stored at a high elevation. Here’s a breakdown of the Kundah project’s workings:

• Water Reservoirs: The project leverages two existing reservoirs – Porthimund as the upper reservoir and Avalanche-Emerald as the lower one.
• Generation: During peak electricity demand, water flows from the upper reservoir through tunnels, spinning turbines in the underground powerhouse and generating clean electricity.
• Storage:  During off-peak hours, surplus electricity from the grid pumps water back from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir, storing energy for future use.

Benefits of the Project:

• Clean Energy:  The project generates clean and renewable hydropower, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Grid Stability:  By storing and releasing energy as needed, the project helps regulate the power grid, ensuring stability and reliability.
• Peak Power Management:  The Kundah project can address peak power demands, prevent blackouts, and ensure a consistent power supply for Tamil Nadu.
• Economic Benefits:  The project is expected to generate electricity at a lower cost than traditional methods.

An Underground Marvel:

One of the unique aspects of the Kundah project is its underground powerhouse. This minimizes the project’s environmental footprint and visual impact on the Nilgiri landscape. 

Project Status and Impact:

While the exact completion date is subject to verification, some sources suggest a target by the end of 2024.  The Kundah project is expected to generate 3 Million Units (MU) of clean power per day, significantly contributing to Tamil Nadu’s renewable energy goals and India’s national grid stability.

Conclusion:

The Kundah pumped storage project is a testament to India’s commitment to clean energy and technological innovation. It serves as a model for sustainable development, harnessing natural resources responsibly while preserving the beauty of the Nilgiri Hills.