India is set to significantly enhance its hydropower capacity, aiming to add 11.9 gigawatts (GW) in the next five years as part of its broader strategy to boost renewable energy production. Currently, 37 hydropower projects are underway, collectively expected to generate 15 GW, with plans in development for projects that will contribute an additional 50 GW.

This move was discussed in detail during the Power Ministers' conference of the North Eastern Region (NER) states?Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura?held in Guwahati. Chaired by Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal, the conference focused on enhancing the power sector's infrastructure and capacity in the region.

The assembly reviewed the progress of critical initiatives such as the North-Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP) and the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), aimed at strengthening the transmission and distribution networks across these states. In his opening remarks, the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Power highlighted the government's commitment to delivering reliable and quality power nationwide, emphasising the importance of pumped storage projects (PSP) in meeting future energy needs.

Manohar Lal underlined the significant hydropower potential of the North-Eastern states, which are central to achieving India?s ambitious target of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030. He detailed the government's efforts to enhance the economic viability of hydropower projects, including provisions for Hydro Purchase Obligation (HPO), tariff rationalisation, and a waiver of inter-state transmission service (ISTS) charges.

The conference also addressed administrative challenges, such as land acquisition and forest clearances, crucial for the timely implementation of these projects. The Union Minister urged the states to avoid imposing water-cess on hydropower projects as it could lead to higher tariffs for consumers.

With these initiatives, India aims to strengthen its energy security and contribute significantly to global efforts in combating climate change through increased reliance on renewable energy sources. (Source: ET)