Impact of Hydro Generation Outage Due to High Silt in Northem Region of India

Hydroelectric power generation plays a significant role in India's energy mix, particularly in the Northern region, where numerous hydroelectric plants are situated. Flexibility of Hydro generation is an effective tool for grid operation. However, the operation of these plants can be affected by various factors, including high silt levels in rivers and reservoirs. This paper aims to highlight the effect of high silt levels in the water stream of Himalayan River on hydro generation profile (both central sector and state sector) and its impact on power system operation. Impact of hydro generation outage due to high silt condition on state demand profile, Inter-regional (IR) exchange and power market (RTM & Bilateral) transaction profile are analyzed. Action taken by the system operator in real time to ensure reliable and efficient grid operation during high silt period is discussed. At last, currently followed methodology for silt monitoring in reservoir of hydro stations and scope of further improvement is also discussed.