TNGECL Seeks Environmental Clearance for 1,000 MW Vellimalai Pumped Storage Project in Kanyakumari
Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited (TNGECL) has applied for environmental clearance from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for a 1,000 MW closed-loop pumped storage project at Vellimalai in Kanyakumari district. This project, developed under a public-private partnership model, aims to enhance peak power management and support the integration of renewable energy in Tamil Nadu.
It will consist of four units of 250 MW each, with a total project cost of Rs 5,624 crore. The project involves constructing two new off-river reservoirs with capacities of 4.39 million cubic metres and 4.91 million cubic metres.
Water will be pumped from the lower to the upper reservoir during off-peak hours, enabling power generation during peak demand, with an estimated annual output of 2,080.55 GWh. The project will require approximately 159 hectares of land, including 62 hectares of forest land, and will need clearance from the National Board for Wildlife due to its location within an eco-sensitive zone.
