Greenko Group has selected Sweden-based AFRY to undertake detailed design engineering for its 1.8GW Shahpur pumped hydro energy storage project in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan.

The development is expected to advance the country’s clean energy infrastructure and enhance energy resilience in the region.

To be developed on the Shahabad Kuno River basin, the Shahpur project will feature a surface powerhouse capable of accommodating five units of 300MW and two units of 150MW.

It is an off-stream, closed-loop system involving the construction of two reservoirs situated on flat or gently sloping land.

Water for the initial filling of the lower reservoir will be sourced from the Kuno River through a one-time lifting process.

Both reservoirs will then be used cyclically for water storage and energy generation, with periodic replenishment of evaporation and transmission losses by pumping water from the river.

The Indian pumped hydro energy storage facility is expected to facilitate efficient storage and distribution of clean energy, supporting the region’s growing power demands.

As the appointed design consultant, AFRY will provide detailed design services, construction supervision, and on-site engineering support through its resident engineer.

AFRY India managing director Sai Seela said: “This is a landmark moment for the renewable energy development in the region, and we are proud to be confirmed as Greenko’s trusted partner for this new project – a testament to our team’s expertise and dedication in accelerating the energy transition, demonstrated in previous collaborations.”

This collaboration builds on both parties’ previous partnership. AFRY served as principal design consultant for Greenko’s Pinnapuram integrated renewable energy storage project.

The Pinnapuram project’s setup includes 3GW of solar, 550MW of wind, and 1.68GW of pumped hydro storage, capable of operating in four-hour cycles twice a day.

Greenko operates a portfolio of 7.5GW in clean energy assets spanning solar, wind, and hydroelectric projects. The company is engaged in integrating advanced energy storage systems with renewable generation to drive India’s transition to clean energy.