Paithon Hydroelectric Power Plant | India Renewable Energy Facility

Paithon is a hydroelectric power plant located in India, with coordinates 19.4834° N, 75.3696° E. It has an operational capacity of 12 megawatts (MW), placing it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric facilities. The plant is currently operational, supplying renewable electricity to the regional grid. As a hydroelectric facility, Paithon utilizes the flow of water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in low operational emissions. In India, hydroelectric projects are regulated under the Ministry of Power and the Central Electricity Authority, with environmental clearances required from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The plant's technology is typical for small hydro projects, often using run-of-river or dam-based configurations. The plant supports India's renewable energy goals and provides clean power to local communities. Its operation contributes to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helps meet peak demand. The facility's location in a region with adequate water resources ensures reliable generation, while its small capacity minimizes environmental footprint compared to larger hydro projects.

Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow. Paithon's 12 MW capacity suggests a relatively small installation, which typically has limited environmental impact. The plant's operation may alter downstream water regimes, but run-of-river designs can mitigate such effects. In India, hydro projects require environmental impact assessments and compliance with water use regulations.