Synopsis
Arunachal Pradesh is set to benefit from 35 small hydropower projects projected to generate 570.75 MW of power, attracting Rs 7,000 crore in investment and creating 7,500 jobs for local youths. The projects align with the state's ambitions for energy independence and sustainable development.Key Takeaways
- 35 small hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Projected power generation of 570.75 MW.
- Estimated investment of Rs 7,000 crore.
- Creation of 7,500 local jobs.
- Revenue of Rs 58.25 crore per year post-commissioning.
Itanagar, Feb 22 (NationPress) A total of 35 small hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh are projected to generate 570.75 MW of energy, attracting an estimated investment of Rs 7,000 crore into the region, as stated by an official on Saturday.
Sonam Chombay, the Commissioner of Hydropower in Arunachal Pradesh, mentioned that these projects would also provide employment opportunities for 7,500 local youths.
Upon their completion, these projects are expected to generate revenue in the form of free power, estimated at Rs 58.25 crore annually after commissioning, he added.
Chowna Mein, the Deputy Chief Minister, convened a meeting with the developers of small hydropower projects to review the progress of ongoing initiatives.
During the meeting, Mein, who oversees the Power portfolio, expressed the state government’s commitment to advancing small hydropower projects in line with the objectives of ‘Atmanirbhar Arunachal’ and India’s net-zero goals as outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He assured project developers of the government’s full support to tackle challenges and engage with local communities. However, he urged them to accelerate their efforts and show their dedication to the timely completion of projects.
In recognition of their achievements, the Deputy Chief Minister honored two power developers for their prompt project completions during the meeting.
Additionally, two major hydroelectric power projects will be established in Arunachal Pradesh, with a combined investment estimated at around Rs 35,000 crore.
A senior official previously stated that a significant move to boost the financial viability of large hydropower projects has been made through Memorandum of Agreements (MoA) with Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs). The state cabinet has recently approved SGST reimbursement concessions for the Tato-II Hydroelectric Project (700 MW) and the Kamala Hydroelectric Project (1,720 MW).
The Tato-II HEP is situated on the Siyom River in the Shi Yomi district, while the Kamala HEP is located on the Kamala River in the Kamle district. Both projects will be implemented through joint ventures between the state government and the respective CPSUs, with the state government retaining a 26 percent equity share in the joint ventures, according to the official.
