New Delhi:  Arunachal Pradesh government has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with three Central Government Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) for the allocation of 12 hydropower projects. The cumulative operational capacity of these 12 hydropower projects is set to soar to an impressive 11,517 MW. The entrusted responsibility for the implementation of these projects lies with three Central PSUs – NHPC Ltd., SJVN Ltd., and NEEPCO Ltd. These projects, originally earmarked for independent power developers, witnessed delays due to various factors. Collaborative efforts by the Central and State Governments over the last two years have paved the way for the projects' reinvigoration under the stewardship of Central PSUs.

In the presence of Union Minister of Power and New & Renewable Energy, R K Singh, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein and distinguished attendees from the Union Power Ministry, Central PSUs, and the state administration, the MoAs were officially signed in the capital, Itanagar.

The Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project, strategically situated in the Upper Subansiri district, and the Kamala Hydroelectric Project, proposed for construction in Kamle district, are poised to bring capital investment of Rs 43,000 crore for the state. This initiative is projected to generate an estimated 12,746 MU of electricity annually, contributing significantly to the region's energy sufficiency.

Beyond its energy implications, the hydro projects promise to be a catalyst for regional growth. With potential for job creation, local economic stimulation and nurturing of skill development, these ventures stand to give a boost to Arunachal Pradesh's economy. Moreover, their implementation embodies the state's commitment to a sustainable future, reducing its carbon footprint and charting a greener course.

Chief Minister Khandu lauded the exemplary role of Central PSUs, praising their contribution to the state's progress. He highlighted the receipt of free power worth Rs 1183 crore from projects like Panyor Lower, Pare, and Kameng Hydro Electric, with expectations of further increases. Additionally, Khandu revealed the 'Golden Jubilee Border Village Electrification Program,' aiming to supply stable power through micro hydel projects to remote border villages and defense establishments.

With these developments, Arunachal Pradesh's commitment to renewable energy production gains momentum, reflecting its leading role in fulfilling Prime Minister Modi's vision of achieving 50 percent energy production from renewable sources by 2030.
/BI