The Electrical Department of VJTI organized an industrial visit to the Bhira Hydroelectric Project in Bhira, Maharashtra. This iconic power plant, constructed in 1927 and operated by Tata Power, is renowned for its historical significance and advanced hydroelectric technology. The Bhira Hydroelectric Project utilizes water from the Mulshi Dam and has a total generation capacity of 300 MW, featuring six 25 MW Pelton turbines and a 150 MW pumped storage generator added in 1997. Students gained insights into its energy storage capabilities, where water is pumped to higher elevations during low-demand periods and released to generate electricity during peak demand. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate (Am), characterized by little to no rainfall from November to May and extremely heavy rainfall from June to September due to the Arabian Sea branch of the South-west monsoon. October brings moderately heavy rainfall, making Bhira’s location a unique example of monsoon-affected hydropower infrastructure.

During the visit, students learned about the plant's operational efficiency and its recognition by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) with Silver Shield awards in 2007 and 2008 for being one of the top-performing power stations in India. This hands-on experience provided valuable knowledge about renewable energy generation and the role of hydroelectric power in supporting the Mumbai metropolitan area.