Shimla, January 02: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the Himachal Pradesh government is set to allocate 22 new hydropower projects, with a combined power generation capacity of 828 MW. These projects, ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW, are spread across several districts including Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla.

The projects are strategically distributed across different river basins: nine projects (595 MW) in the Chenab river basin, eight projects (169 MW) in the Sutlej river basin, four projects (55 MW) in the Ravi basin, and one project (9 MW) in the Beas basin.

For the first time, the state government has decided to allocate these hydropower projects to other states, union territories, and various state and central public sector undertakings. This will be done based on an upfront premium of Rs 10 lakh per MW for a 40-year period. The Energy Directorate has already communicated this decision to all state secretaries and central undertakings, and advertisements will be issued for widespread publicity regarding the project allocation.

Diary Times is now on Whatsapp Channels. Click here to join

CM Sukhu emphasized that these projects will not only ensure a stable power supply but also boost the state’s revenue through free electricity, generate employment opportunities for local communities, and foster regional development. He highlighted that this initiative will contribute to making Himachal Pradesh one of the most prosperous states in the country.