Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh Invites Global Bids for 15 Stalled Hydropower Projects, Boosts Clean Energy Investment Drive
In a major step towards strengthening its renewable energy sector, the Himachal Pradesh government has invited global bids for the revival and speedy execution of 15 stalled hydropower projects. These projects had earlier been cancelled due to a lack of interest from private developers.
In a major step towards strengthening its renewable energy sector, the Himachal Pradesh government has invited global bids for the revival and speedy execution of 15 stalled hydropower projects. These projects had earlier been cancelled due to a lack of interest from private developers.
The fresh international bidding initiative reflects the state government’s renewed strategy to unlock Himachal’s vast hydropower potential, attract fresh investments, and create new sources of revenue for the state economy.
₹3,336 Crore Investment Planned Through 19 New Hydropower Projects
Apart from reopening stalled projects, the government has also signed implementation agreements for 19 hydropower projects during the current year. Together, these projects will generate around 278 MW of electricity and bring an estimated investment of nearly ₹3,336 crore into the state.
Some of the key projects include Soyal Dashal, Khauli-II, Gramang, Umli, Bharmour Stage-I and II, Harsar Stage-II and III, Tundah Stage-II, Janglik, Rupin Stage-II, Dunali-I & II, Jari, Toral Kundli, Tundan, Kot Dogri, Upper Kurmi, Kalal Khol, and Melan hydropower projects.
150 MW Tidong Stage-I Project Completed
In another significant achievement for Himachal’s energy sector, the construction of the 150 MW Tidong Stage-I Hydroelectric Project has been completed. The state has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Geo Tropi India Private Limited to explore and develop geothermal energy projects, marking a move towards diversified clean energy sources.
Himachal’s Hydropower Potential Stands at 24,000 MW
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu praised the officials and employees of the Energy Department for accelerating hydropower development and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making the power sector a major pillar of the state’s economic growth.
He stated that the government has introduced important changes to the power policy, including a revised royalty structure for hydropower projects up to 25 MW capacity. Under the new policy, developers will pay a uniform royalty rate of 12 percent for 40 years, aiming to create a more transparent and investment-friendly environment.
According to the state government, Himachal Pradesh has an estimated hydropower potential of approximately 24,000 MW. Currently, 189 projects with a combined capacity of 12,588 MW are operational, while 54 projects generating 1,528 MW are under construction. Additionally, **526 projects with a total capacity of 7,539 MW are at different stages of approval.
Government Focuses on Energy-Led Economic Growth
Chief Minister Sukhu said that the development of the power sector remains one of the government’s top priorities, as it will help strengthen the state’s financial position and create additional revenue opportunities. He assured that all implementation agreements and MoUs are being signed after ensuring proper safeguards to protect the long-term interests of Himachal Pradesh.
