Environmental Clearance

Environmental Clearance (EC) is a mandatory requirement for hydropower projects as specified under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, issued under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. The EC process ensures that potential environmental impacts are identified and mitigated before project construction begins.

The Department of Hydropower Development coordinates with project developers and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to facilitate the environmental clearance process.

EC Process

• Screening — Determination of whether the project requires EC based on capacity and location
• Scoping — Identification of key environmental issues and preparation of Terms of Reference (ToR)
• EIA Study — Comprehensive study covering air, water, land, biodiversity, and socio-economic impacts
• Public Hearing — Mandatory public consultation with project-affected communities
• Appraisal — Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) review and recommendation
• Decision — Grant or rejection of EC by MoEFCC

Key Requirements

• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report prepared by an accredited consultant
• Environmental Management Plan (EMP) with specific mitigation measures
• Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) plan for watershed conservation
• Biodiversity conservation plan including wildlife corridor management
• Monitoring and compliance framework with periodic reporting

Compliance

• Post-EC compliance monitoring is mandatory throughout the project lifecycle
• Six-monthly compliance reports must be submitted to MoEFCC and the State Pollution Control Board
• Non-compliance can result in suspension or revocation of the environmental clearance