Arunachal Pradesh is set to transform India’s energy landscape with hydropower projects worth over Rs 1 lakh crore, aimed at generating 18,000 MW, Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced in a PTI interview. Leveraging the state’s vast 67,000 MW hydroelectric potential, these initiatives mark a bold step toward sustainable energy and economic growth.

The state has entrusted five projects totaling 2,620 MW to North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd (NEEPCO), five projects of 5,097 MW to Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd (SJVN), and two projects producing 3,800 MW to the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). Highlighted projects include the 2,000 MW Lower Subansiri, poised to become India’s largest hydropower plant by 2026, and the 2,880 MW Dibang multipurpose project, featuring a 288-metre dam, targeted for completion in 2032.

Khandu explained that previous attempts with private developers stalled due to insufficient investment capacity. “After reviewing and canceling those projects, we partnered with central PSUs—NHPC, NEEPCO, and SJVN—signing basin-wise MoUs for 13,000 MW last year,” he said, crediting discussions with the Prime Minister for the shift to reliable public sector execution.

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Arunachal’s five major river basins—Kameng, Subansiri, Siang, Dibang, and Lohit—along with smaller rivers like Tawang Chu and Kamle, provide ideal conditions for large and small-scale hydropower projects. The state is also exploring micro and mini projects to electrify remote areas, enhancing accessibility and sustainability.

These initiatives promise to boost Arunachal’s revenue from Rs 500 crore to over Rs 1,000 crore within a decade, fostering job creation and industrialization. With central government support, including a Rs 4,136 crore allocation for northeastern hydropower, Khandu emphasized community engagement, ensuring no project proceeds without local consent. The Siang Upper Project also aims to counter China’s Brahmaputra dams, securing water flow and flood control.

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