Pulichintala Hydroelectric Power Plant, Andhra Pradesh, India

Pulichintala is a hydroelectric power plant located in Andhra Pradesh, India, with a capacity of 120 megawatts. The facility is operational and plays a role in the state's power generation mix, leveraging the region's water resources for clean electricity production. The plant operates as a run-of-river hydroelectric facility, typical for projects in the Krishna River basin. India's hydroelectric sector is regulated by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and state-level agencies, with environmental clearances required under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) notification. The plant's capacity places it in the medium-scale range for Indian hydro projects. As a renewable energy source, Pulichintala contributes to India's goals for clean energy and grid stability. Its operation supports local electricity supply and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with national targets for renewable capacity expansion.

Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The Pulichintala plant is situated in a region with seasonal rainfall, and its operation must balance power generation with irrigation and downstream water needs. The facility's environmental impact is managed through regulatory compliance with India's environmental laws.