Power from Flow: Hydrokinetic Turbine Technology and India’s Renewable Push

Why in News ?

In a major step towards expanding renewable energy and ensuring 24×7 electricity supply, the Tripura government has identified 10 river sites to generate about 185 MW of power using Hydrokinetic Turbine Technology. The initiative reflects India’s growing focus on innovative, low-impact renewable energy solutions.

What is Hydrokinetic Turbine Technology ?

Hydrokinetic turbine technology is an emerging form of hydropower generation that harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water—such as rivers, canals, and tidal streams—to produce electricity.

Unlike conventional hydropower plants, hydrokinetic systems:

• Do not require dams, barrages, or diversion structures
• Operate with practically zero water head
• Are installed directly in the river channel

Electricity is generated as the natural movement of water rotates turbine blades, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy.

How Hydrokinetic Systems Differ from Conventional Hydropower

This makes hydrokinetic technology particularly suitable for ecologically sensitive regions.

Key Benefits of Hydrokinetic Turbines

Renewable and Clean Energy Source

• Utilises the continuous flow of water, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
• Helps diversify the renewable energy mix beyond solar and wind.

Minimal Environmental Impact

• Operates with natural river flow.
• Avoids large-scale submergence and displacement.
• Preserves aquatic ecosystems and river morphology.

Scalable and Flexible Deployment

• Suitable for:
  • Small off-grid and rural electrification projects
  • Larger multi-turbine arrays for grid supply
• Can be deployed in rivers, canals, and irrigation channels.

Lower Maintenance Requirements

• Fewer moving parts compared to large hydro systems.
• Designed with debris protection mechanisms.
• Leads to lower operation and maintenance costs.

Significance for India’s Energy Transition

• Energy Security: Supports decentralised and continuous power generation, especially in remote areas.
• Climate Goals: Aligns with India’s commitment to increasing non-fossil fuel energy capacity.
• River-Friendly Development: Offers a solution that balances development with ecological protection.
• Regional Development: Particularly useful for hilly and river-rich states like Tripura and other northeastern regions.

Challenges and Limitations

• Lower power output per unit compared to large dams
• Dependence on consistent river flow velocity
• Initial costs and limited commercial-scale deployment experience
• Need for site-specific studies and regulatory clearances

Way Forward

• Promote pilot projects and demonstration plants
• Encourage public–private partnerships in river-based renewables
• Integrate hydrokinetic power with solar and wind for hybrid systems
• Develop clear guidelines for environmental assessment and navigation safety
• Support indigenous R&D to reduce costs and improve efficiency