HYDROPOWER: BEST OPTION FOR INDIA

Energy is the primary and most universal measure of all kinds of work by human being and nature. Electricity is a basic part of nature and it is one of the most widely used forms of energy. India has been an energy-deficient country. Over 40 percent of India's population does not have access to electricity and providing electricity for 24 hours in rural areas is a major challenge. Meanwhile, hydro-power is one of the energy sources which oscillate between aspiration and achievements Hydropower is perceived as an environment-friendly, low-cost source of electricity that relies on proven technology. The Government is accordingly giving priority to hydropower generation projects in both public and private sectors. Recent power policies have attracted good response from private entrepreneurs. In this regard, hydropower appear to be one of the most efficient and effective solutions for clean and sustainable energy development in India. Power generating total installed capacity in India is of 1, 27,056 MW, which includes 33,194 MW from hydro. India’s geographical location has several advantages for extensive use of most of the hydropower. This article presents a review of the potential and utilization of the hydropower in the world and in India.