Researchers at IIT Kharagpur are generating electricity from Subarnarekha river by harnessing the flow of water without turbines
A groundbreaking initiative by researchers from IIT Kharagpur is transforming how we think about hydroelectric power generation. Instead of relying on traditional turbines or large dams, this team is harnessing the power of water flow in the Subarnarekha River to generate electricity using a unique and innovative method. In the past five to six months, the researchers, along with local workers, have successfully lit LED lights using electricity generated from the river’s flow in Keshiari block, Paschim Medinipur district. Their initial success has led to ambitious plans, including using this technology to power speedboats and light the ‘Jungalkanya Setu.’
This approach promises not only to revolutionize how we generate hydroelectric power but also to boost local economies and sustainable tourism. Onkar Venkatyalla and Saikat Nandi, the key researchers behind this innovation, are not just focused on providing clean energy but also on creating jobs and developing the region’s tourism potential. In fact, one of their primary goals is to develop the area around the Subarnarekha River by leveraging this new power generation technology, which could bring both sustainable energy and economic growth to the region.
The major limitation in traditional hydroelectric power generation lies in the need for large turbines, deep water, and strong currents, which also often require expensive dams. In response to this challenge, the IIT Kharagpur researchers have created a revolutionary “energy harvesting machine” that generates electricity even with a small flow of water. Since 2018-19, the team has been perfecting this method, which works through vortex-induced vibration, a technology that taps into the energy contained in water currents. Their solution requires only 6-10 feet of water depth and favorable currents of around 1.8-2 km per hour—conditions that can be found in many small rivers or streams, where traditional turbines would be impractical.
The project’s potential for scalability and portability is remarkable. The energy harvesting machine can be easily relocated, making it ideal for areas where water flow fluctuates or where infrastructure is minimal. In September 2024, the team achieved a significant milestone by successfully generating electricity in the Subarnarekha River in Bhasraghat, a key location in the Keshiari block. This success has spurred further work in nearby areas like Amilasai, ensuring that the technology is adaptable to different water conditions.
In terms of social impact, this technology is more than just a clean energy solution. It’s a pathway to economic development, particularly in rural areas. The researchers, through their start-up Honeyloop Technology Private Limited, aim to generate employment by training and employing local workers in the construction, operation, and maintenance of the energy harvesting machines. By using local labor and collaborating with the local administration, the project fosters community involvement and empowerment.
The researchers are also planning to apply this technology to run speedboats on the river, a step that could transform local transportation and tourism. Their goal is to eventually power local infrastructure, like the ‘Jungalkanya Setu’ bridge, which would be illuminated using the generated electricity. This project is expected to be completed within the next six months, bringing the vision of sustainable development to life.
The cost of generating one kilowatt of electricity using this innovative technology is about ₹1.5 lakh, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution for communities that have limited access to electricity. The potential applications extend beyond lighting and boats, and there are plans for further initiatives that would use this locally generated energy to meet other needs in the community.
In a world increasingly focused on clean energy and sustainable development, this initiative stands as a promising example of how small-scale, community-based solutions can have a powerful impact. Not only does it offer an alternative to costly and environmentally disruptive hydroelectric projects, but it also opens the door to new possibilities for green energy generation in places that were previously overlooked. Through this combination of innovation, collaboration, and local engagement, IIT Kharagpur’s energy harvesting project is set to inspire similar initiatives across India and around the world.
Media Coverage:
| News 18 Bangla | Ei Samay |
| Bengal Post | Prabhat Khabar |
| Kharagpur Live |
Edited By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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