NHPC to Start Trial Runs for the Subansiri Lower Project in July

Hydropower company NHPC will start trials in July, 2023 for the Subansiri Lower project which runs through Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, and the first unit is expected to be commissioned in December, 2023.

By the end of 2024, all eight units will be commissioned, which will aid the country in its energy transition. The two-GW project, which started in 2003, was delayed by protests and litigation owing to environmental concerns. As per ruling by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) work resumed in 2019 after eight years of suspension. The project cost escalated to Rs 212.5 billion (USD 2.6 billion), which is more than three times the original estimate.

Furthermore, NHPC is finalizing plans to award construction orders for the 2.9-GW Dibang project, which will be the biggest hydropower plant in India, once completed. Large dams have been accorded 'clean energy' status by the government, making it pertinent for provincial power distributors to purchase hydropower. The government will provide budgetary support for civil construction and flood moderation work in some cases.

Hydroelectric power is of key importance in making up for fluctuations in electricity demand and balancing the grid, even as the share of solar and wind power rises.