TEESTA LOW DAM -IV — 160 MW Hydroelectric

TEESTA LOW DAM-IV, with a capacity of 160 MW, occupies a modest rank of 474 among India’s 1,805 power generation facilities. While this ranking may suggest a limited impact, it is important to contextualize it within the vast landscape of India’s energy sector. This hydroelectric plant, commissioned in 2016, leverages the natural flow of the Teesta River to generate clean electricity, showcasing India’s investment in renewable energy sources. Within the local vicinity, it is surrounded by other hydro plants, including TEESTA -V at 510 MW, TEESTA LOW DAM-III at 132 MW, and several others, forming a cluster that significantly contributes to regional energy needs. Although TEESTA LOW DAM-IV represents only 0.03% of India’s total generation capacity of 513,890 MW, it highlights the critical role of hydropower in an energy portfolio dominated by coal. India’s energy profile reflects a diverse mix, yet coal remains the principal fuel, making the presence of hydroelectric facilities vital for achieving sustainability targets. The operational significance of TEESTA LOW DAM-IV cannot be overstated, as it contributes to not only local electricity supply but also to flood control and irrigation in the region. The ownership of the plant reflects a commitment to harnessing renewable resources, aligning with national policies aimed at enhancing energy security and reducing carbon emissions. As India continues to grapple with the challenges of energy demand and environmental sustainability, the TEESTA LOW DAM-IV plant serves as a reminder of the importance of diversifying the energy mix. Its contributions to the grid will be increasingly crucial as the country moves towards a greener energy future, reaffirming the role of hydropower in India’s energy landscape.