India's Hydropower Output Hits 40-Year Low

India's hydropower output has experienced its sharpest decline in nearly four decades, according to recent reports. The Economic Times indicates a significant drop in hydropower generation, attributing it to various factors including deficient rainfall and lower water levels in reservoirs across the country. Data from the Central Electricity Authority reveals a substantial fall in hydropower generation during the fiscal year, marking the steepest decline since the 1980s. The slump in production comes as a blow to India's renewable energy aspirations and adds pressure to its already strained power sector. Factors such as inadequate monsoon rainfall and reduced snowfall in catchment areas have led to diminished water levels in reservoirs crucial for hydropower generation. This has severely impacted the capacity utilisation of hydroelectric plants, resulting in the unprecedented drop in output. The decline in hydropower generation poses challenges for India's energy sector, particularly amidst the country's efforts to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Hydropower plays a vital role in India's renewable energy mix, providing a reliable source of electricity and aiding in the reduction of carbon emissions. Experts suggest that addressing the underlying issues affecting hydropower generation, such as water management and climate change adaptation, is crucial to revitalising the sector. Efforts to improve infrastructure, enhance water conservation measures, and promote sustainable practices in hydropower development are deemed necessary to mitigate the impact of future challenges. As India grapples with the repercussions of this significant decline in hydropower output, policymakers and stakeholders are urged to prioritise strategies that foster resilience and ensure the long-term sustainability of the country's energy infrastructure.