Indian Union Power Minister R K Singh announced that 13 upcoming hydroelectric projects, with a combined capacity of 13,000 MW, could attract an investment of nearly Rs 1.4 lakh crore into Arunachal Pradesh. The minister disclosed this information after visiting the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project on the borders of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
Investment Potential and Per Capita Income Surge
Singh, while inspecting the ongoing construction at the project sites in Gerukamukh, Assam, expressed satisfaction with the progress. He highlighted the significant contribution of hydroelectric projects to the nation’s clean power supply, stating, “These projects will bring an investment of around Rs 1.4 lakh crore in the state, leading to quadrupling of per capita income. And the nation will get clean power.”
Hydropower Developments in Jammu & Kashmir
The Power Minister also noted five additional hydropower facilities under construction in Jammu & Kashmir. Singh commended the progress in the region and the increased investment, emphasizing the critical role of hydropower projects in ensuring 24/7 renewable energy. “Our hydro capacity is increasing,” Singh stated, “Today, our hydropower capacity is 47,000 MW, which equates to 35% of our potential hydropower capacity.”
Power Demand Challenges and Economic Growth Forecast
With India’s power demands soaring by 20% in August, September, and October 2023 compared to the previous year, meeting power demands has become a growing challenge. The NITI Aayog predicts a steady 7.5% economic growth in the next two decades, indicating a sustained upward trajectory.
India’s Power Capacity Growth
Despite progress, India’s power consumption remains significantly lower than that of developed countries. Singh acknowledged the challenge of keeping up with power capacity growth to match rising demand. Over the past nine and a half years, India has added 1.9 lakh MW of power capacity, transforming from a power-deficient to a power-sufficient nation.
Exporting Surplus Power
Singh emphasized that the surplus power is not only meeting domestic needs but also enabling India to export power to neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal.
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