Greenko taps AFRY for engineering of Shahpur pumped hydro project

Greenko Group, a leader in renewable energy in India, has taken a major step forward in advancing the country’s clean energy infrastructure by partnering with AFRY for the detailed engineering of its ambitious Shahpur pumped hydro energy storage project in Rajasthan. This 1,800 MW initiative is set to play a critical role in bolstering Rajasthan’s energy resilience while supporting India’s transition towards sustainable energy solutions.

The Shahpur pumped hydro storage project underscores Greenko’s commitment to innovative renewable energy projects that integrate generation with advanced storage technologies. Designed as an off-stream, closed-loop hydroelectric plant, the project will feature dual reservoirs with a capacity of 1.01 thousand million cubic feet each. This cutting-edge facility will efficiently store and distribute clean energy, addressing intermittency issues often associated with renewable sources like solar and wind.

Greenko’s track record of pioneering large-scale renewable energy projects includes the groundbreaking Pinnapuram Integrated Renewable Energy Storage project. This initiative combined 3,000 MW of solar power, 550 MW of wind energy, and 1,680 MW of pumped hydro storage, further solidifying the company’s reputation in driving the clean energy transition.

AFRY: A trusted partner for engineering expertise

Greenko’s decision to appoint AFRY as the design consultant for the Shahpur project reflects the Swedish company’s proven expertise in sustainable energy solutions. AFRY’s scope includes detailed design engineering, construction supervision, and on-site engineering support through its resident engineers. This collaboration builds on their successful partnership at Pinnapuram, where AFRY’s involvement ensured the project met its ambitious goals for efficiency and sustainability.

Sai Seela, Managing Director of AFRY India, emphasised that this partnership highlights AFRY’s ability to deliver innovative solutions for renewable energy projects. Seela noted that the Shahpur project represents a significant milestone in advancing renewable energy development in the region and aligns with AFRY’s global commitment to sustainability.

Technical innovations in pumped hydro storage

The Shahpur project’s advanced design includes a pit-type surface powerhouse located between the reservoirs, which will be connected via a sophisticated water conductor system. This system will feature headrace pipes, vertical pressure shafts, and horizontal pressure tunnels to optimise energy flow. Additionally, the lower reservoir will be filled through the Hanotiya Barrage, a structure to be constructed across the Shahbad Kuno River, ensuring efficient water management.

Driving renewable energy projects in India

Greenko’s growing portfolio of renewable energy projects, spanning solar, wind, and hydroelectric capacities totalling 7.5 GW, positions the company as a central player in India’s clean energy transition. The Shahpur pumped hydro storage project is expected to enhance energy reliability and support Rajasthan’s efforts to integrate renewable energy into its power grid more effectively.

Greenko and AFRY’s collaboration on the Shahpur pumped hydro storage project represents a pivotal moment in India’s clean energy journey. As Greenko leverages AFRY’s engineering expertise, the project promises to deliver innovative solutions that address the challenges of renewable energy storage and distribution. This initiative reinforces India’s commitment to building a sustainable and resilient energy future.