What is the conflict between energy needs and water availability in India?

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India Faces a Growing Conflict Between Energy Demands and Water Scarcity

India is confronting a significant dilemma as it seeks to meet its burgeoning energy demands, primarily through coal-fired power plants, while grappling with severe water scarcity. The country, home to 17% of the global population, possesses only 4% of the world's water resources, creating an inherent tension between development needs and environmental sustainability. This challenge is exacerbated by plans to invest nearly US$80 billion by 2031 in new coal power projects, many of which are slated for regions already classified as water-scarce or stressed.
Expansion of Coal Power Projects in Water-Strained Regions

A substantial number of India's planned coal-fired power projects are situated in areas facing critical water shortages. According to a power ministry document, 37 out of 44 new coal power projects are located in regions designated as water-scarce or stressed. This includes nine projects involving state-controlled NTPC, a company that draws 98.5% of its water from such areas. The selection of these locations often prioritises land availability and ease of acquisition over proximity to water sources, as exemplified by the Solapur district.
Impact on Local Water Resources and Residents

The operation of coal-fired power plants significantly increases competition for limited water resources, directly impacting local communities. In Solapur, the commissioning of a 1,320-megawatt NTPC plant in 2017 has intensified the strain on a local reservoir. Residents now face prolonged water shortages, with waiting times for tap water sometimes exceeding a week, a situation that has demonstrably worsened since the plant's operation. While these plants contribute to local employment, the cost is often borne by the availability of essential water for daily life.
Water Scarcity Leading to Power Generation Losses

The lack of sufficient water has already led to significant disruptions in India's power generation capacity. Since 2014, the country has experienced a loss of 60.33 billion units of coal-power generation due to plant shutdowns necessitated by water shortages. Facilities like the Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station, a large plant in a water-stressed region, frequently have to suspend operations of several units due to insufficient rainfall. Despite these recurrent issues, some plants are proceeding with expansion plans without clearly identified water sources.
Government Policy and Future Energy Landscape

India's energy strategy reflects a prioritization of coal, even in the face of water challenges. Despite investments in renewable energy, thermal power is expected to remain dominant for decades, with coal being considered the country's primary energy resource. This preference for coal over water in cases of conflict is a key factor driving the current energy-water nexus issues. Furthermore, older, less water-efficient power units are being kept operational due to increased demand post-pandemic, a move that deviates from earlier decommissioning plans and further strains water resources.

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What is the conflict between energy needs and water availability in India?

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