Upper Sileru I&II Hydroelectric Power Plant, India | 240 MW Capacity

Upper Sileru I&II is a hydroelectric power plant located in India, with a total installed capacity of 240 MW. The facility is operational and plays a key role in harnessing the hydro potential of the Sileru River basin. As a run-of-river project, it generates electricity without significant water storage, aligning with sustainable hydropower practices. The plant operates under India's regulatory framework for hydropower, which includes environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and compliance with the Dam Safety Act. The 240 MW capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale category for Indian hydroelectric projects. Typical technology for such plants includes Francis or Kaplan turbines, depending on head and flow conditions. Upper Sileru I&II contributes to India's renewable energy goals by providing clean, low-carbon electricity to the grid. Its operation supports regional energy security and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. The plant's location in a hilly region also influences local water management and ecosystem dynamics, though specific environmental impacts are managed through regulatory compliance.

The plant's hydroelectric operation produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering a low-carbon energy source. However, the construction and operation of hydropower facilities can affect local aquatic ecosystems and river flow regimes. The Sileru River basin supports diverse flora and fauna, and the plant's run-of-river design minimizes reservoir-related impacts. Proximity to populated areas is limited due to the hilly terrain, reducing exposure to air quality concerns.