CM Sukhu Directs HPPCL to Complete Shongtong Hydropower Project by December 2026, Stresses Focus on Green Energy and Pump Storage Projects

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday directed Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) to expedite the execution of all ongoing hydroelectric power projects across the state.

He instructed that the 450 MW Shongtong Hydroelectric Project be completed by December 2026, noting that more than 60 percent of the work has already been finished. The Chief Minister emphasized the need to accelerate the remaining construction and directed that the transmission line be developed simultaneously to ensure timely evacuation of power from the project.

Reviewing the progress of other projects — including the 130 MW Kashang-II and III, 48 MW Chanju-III, 40 MW Renuka Dam, and 191 MW Thana Plaun hydropower projects — the Chief Minister stressed strict adherence to the completion timelines.

Mr. Sukhu also underscored the importance of developing pump storage projects, instructing HPPCL to begin work at the earliest on the proposed 1,630 MW Renukaji Pump Storage Project and the 270 MW Thana Plaun Pump Storage Project. He said such projects play a vital role in meeting peak power demand and reducing stress on the electricity grid.

Highlighting that harnessing green energy remains a top priority for the State Government, the Chief Minister directed HPPCL to speed up work on ongoing solar power projects and identify new land parcels for setting up additional solar plants across Himachal Pradesh.

He also reviewed the upcoming 1 MW Green Hydrogen Plant at Nalagarh and instructed that the project be completed by June 2026. Calling for greater professionalism within HPPCL, Mr. Sukhu reiterated that the government aims to make Himachal Pradesh a Green Energy State of India by next year.

Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, Secretary (Power) Rakesh Kanwar, Managing Director of HPPCL Abid Hussain Sadiq, and other senior officials were present at the meeting.