"The operational needs of hydro & thermal stations are complimentary and the balanced mix helps in optimal utilization of the capacity."Explain.

Hydroelectricity in India has the installed capacity of 41000MW, which accounts for 15% of total installed capacity and is second highest after thermal power capacity.  Hydropower is also an economical source of power because it is almost pollution free, since no burning of fuel takes place. India has huge capacity for hydropower installation and only one-fifth of it has been used. During summer and monsoon season when the demand for electricity is high, and thermal power plants are not able to fulfill the demand; then this higher load factor demand is compensated with the help of Hydel power plants. Hence we see that the operational needs of hydro & thermal stations are complimentary and the balanced mix helps in optimal utilization of the capacity.

Topics: GS-III: Infrastructure Energy Sector